05/1 - UT- Division of Wildlife names new Director

UTAH DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES NAMES DIVISION OF WILDLIFE RESOURCES DIRECTOR SALT LAKE CITY (April 26, 2005)- The Utah Department of Natural Resources today announced the appointment of Jim Karpowitz as director of the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Karpowitz, a Utah native, will take the helm after twenty-six years in a variety of Division roles. "This has been a very thorough process involving a diverse selection committee," said Mike Styler, executive director of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, who oversaw the national search for the new director. "While it was a difficult decision, the committee's recommendation to appoint Jim represents the interests of Utah's wildlife." A diverse group from the agricultural community, the State Legislature, conservation advocates, and sportsman's groups joined wildlife board members and department administration to interview a group of more than twenty applicants from throughout the country. After interviews, the committee sent their recommendations to Styler who made the final selection. Karpowitz will be responsible for overseeing the management of more than 400 employees and the state's game and non-game wildlife programs including hunter education centers and the state's fish hatcheries. "We're going to focus on expanding wildlife populations, and with the legislature's $2 million allocation we have an opportunity for some huge watershed habitat enhancements and development." Karpowitz said as he summarized his vision for the future. "There are some real challenges, drought has had a major impact on habitat, and we have a long way to go in telling our story to our public." Karpowitz began his career in 1976 as a seasonal aide on various wildlife projects and from that point on, he focused on obtaining education and experience in wildlife issues. A twenty-six year career has given him the opportunity to serve as a wildlife biologist, regional supervisor, and program coordinator. During his tenure as coordinator of the division's big game program, Karpowitz developed a nationally recognized restoration and management plan for bighorn sheep. He is a respected pioneer in the field, and has been instrumental in furthering the science of wildlife management.