CHEYENNE, Wyo.—The Wyoming Game and Fish Department announced Monday that candidates from Wyoming, Colorado and Arizona make up the three finalists to become the department’s new director.
Seven people applied to lead the department, which manages wildlife and regulates hunting and fishing for the state. The director will oversee an agency with a $65 million annual budget and about 450 employees.
The Game and Fish Commission said it has submitted three names to Gov. Dave Freudenthal, who will make the appointment.
“The selection process included matching the candidates to established criteria, background checks and extensive interviews,” said Jerry Galles, commission president. “The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission is very pleased with the caliber and professionalism of the applicants and the three finalists.”
One of the finalists is John Emmerich, deputy director of the Wyoming department. Emmerich’s 29 years with the department have included stints as a terrestrial wildlife biologist, wildlife management coordinator and assistant chief of the Wildlife Division.
Another finalist is Kevin Delaney, an account vice president with UBS Financial Services in Fort Collins, Colo., and the former director of the Division of Sport Fish for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Delaney also worked in the Alaska department as a regional supervisor, regional fishery manager, area management biologist, research biologist, enforcement officer and pilot.
Another finalist is Steve Ferrell, deputy director of the Arizona Game and Fish Department. Ferrell’s 33 years with the Arizona department have included stints as a wildlife assistant, wildlife manager, habitat evaluation specialist, research program supervisor, wildlife regional supervisor and assistant director.
Outgoing director Terry Cleveland will retire next month after 39 years with the department.
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