BREAKING: Colorado Parks and Wildlife has just announced the appointment of Laura Clellan as its new director, following a unanimous vote by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission. Clellan, who has served as interim director since December 1, 2023, is stepping into the role during a critical time for the agency, which oversees the state’s wildlife and manages numerous parks.
During a brief four-minute meeting on Monday, officials confirmed Clellan’s appointment, marking a significant transition for the agency. “I look forward to taking on this challenge,” Clellan stated immediately after the vote. Her leadership comes as Colorado Parks and Wildlife grapples with the complexities of implementing a controversial reintroduction program for wolves, mandated by voters.
With over 30 years of military experience, including roles as the adjutant general and executive director of the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, Clellan brings a wealth of leadership skills to the position. She joined the U.S. Army in 1989 and transitioned to the Colorado National Guard in 1998. Governor Jared Polis praised her interim leadership, noting, “Her leadership over the last few months has been critical for this important state agency.”
Clellan’s appointment follows the departure of former director Jeff Davis, who resigned in late November after being offered a choice between a different role or termination. Davis has since taken a new position as deputy director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, effective January 2024.
As director, Clellan faces significant challenges, including managing a zebra mussel infestation in the Colorado River and planning for the reintroduction of wolverines. The agency is also working on a statewide beaver management plan while addressing public pushback related to the wolf reintroduction initiative, which has sparked debates among conservationists and local communities.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is a major player in the state’s economy, generating hundreds of millions of dollars annually through its hunting, fishing, and park operations. The agency manages 43 state parks and 350 wildlife areas, making its effective leadership crucial for both environmental and economic sustainability.
As Clellan embarks on this new journey, stakeholders are keenly watching how her military background will influence the agency’s direction and policies. The next steps include addressing ongoing controversies and ensuring the successful management of Colorado’s diverse wildlife resources.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.
