Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks recently joined other state conservation agencies across the country in a new bi-partisan organization formed to create partnerships with the federal government to enhance the management and conservation of America’s natural resources. The Natural Resources Leadership Council of the States (NRLCS) recently received its approval from the National Governors Association. Until now, there has not been a formal organization to take a comprehensive view of natural resource protection. "In a time of severe budget restrictions, it’s critical that state and federal agencies develop partnerships to share innovative ideas and solve common problems," said FWP Director Jeff Hagener. "NRLCS will provide a means to make that happen." NRLC is already tracking several key federal programs that impact natural resources. In addition to providing an opportunity to exchange ideas, the organization hopes to foster a better understanding of the challenges and accomplishments of state natural resources agencies. The idea for the new organization came from an October 2001 natural resources summit, organized by The Conservation Fund, a national non-profit organization headquartered in Arlington, Virginia dedicated to land and water conservation in America. The event marked the first time since 1908, when Theodore Roosevelt convened the National Conservation Conference, that state leaders from throughout the nation had come together to discuss their mutual interests in the future of America’s natural resources. NRLCS elected officers include: Greg Walcher (Colorado), president; Nicholas A. DiPasquale (Delaware), vice president; Lonice C. Barrett (Georgia), secretary/treasurer; and John C. Oliver (Pennsylvania), past president, who served as the interim president during the planning and organizational process.
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