Julie Carter

The Commission Meeting included opening ceremonies such as the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence in honor of deceased state servants. The meeting featured introductions of regional staff and local officials, along with presentations of service awards and certificates of appreciation to outstanding employees and the local Sheriff's Office for their partnership in wildlife law enforcement and conservation efforts.

The commission meeting included awards and recognition for efforts to improve hunter education course content and program efficiency. The meeting also featured a public call session where discussions took place regarding the need for support in removing livestock from the National Forest to improve wildlife habitats, as well as concerns raised by constituents regarding the maintenance, staffing, and operational accessibility of the Ben Avery Clay Target Center.

The meeting included a moment of silence in honor of deceased state department members and a presiding judge. The Commission recognized the service of an outgoing commissioner and welcomed a newly appointed commissioner. Local officials provided remarks welcoming the Commission to the city, and discussions were held regarding the upcoming budget and the continued support for state wildlife officers and department employees.

Wildlife 2030 is the Arizona Game and Fish Department's strategic plan, outlining its guiding principles and diverse roles. The plan is structured around two primary lines of business: Wildlife Conservation and Recreation. Its overarching purpose is to conserve Arizona's diverse wildlife resources and manage safe, compatible outdoor recreation opportunities for current and future generations, aspiring to be a national conservation leader. Key strategies include maintaining state authority, securing adequate funding through entrepreneurial models, leveraging partnerships, providing law enforcement, encouraging stewardship of public lands, ensuring land and water access, promoting the economic value of wildlife-related recreation, providing information and education, and making data-driven decisions.

The meeting began with opening remarks, a moment of silence acknowledging the tragic loss of Arizona Department of Public Safety officers, and acknowledgments of the host city, Maricopa. Key segments included awards and recognition ceremonies for retiring personnel, specifically Jill Bright for her 27-year career in wildlife conservation, particularly concerning the Sonoran pronghorn recovery, and Katherine Thompson for her 21 years of service, focusing on customer service, administrative operations, and recruitment efforts. The commission also recognized Trevor Cammon and Sons Farms for their outstanding dedication to wildlife conservation through participation in the Yuma region's dove plot program. Regional highlights were presented, noting the diversity of challenges in Southwestern Arizona, including water scarcity and development pressure.