Micah Holmes

The Oklahoma State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP) provides proactive guidance for conserving Oklahoma's rare and declining fish and wildlife species and their essential habitats. The plan identifies Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN), key conservation issues, and actions required for their effective conservation, restoration, and status improvement. Key focus areas include prioritizing habitat-based approaches, promoting voluntary measures, addressing issues such as habitat modification, pollution, and invasive species, and fostering strategic partnerships. The overarching goal is to maintain the state's rich biological heritage for present and future generations and to prevent species from becoming threatened or endangered.

The Commission meeting covered several operational and financial matters. Key topics included the approval of a donation from the Sooner State Chapter of the Quail Coalition for habitat projects, updates on the R3 symposium, fishing clinics, and upcoming agency meetings. The Director provided departmental updates on license sales, federal grant coordination, property maintenance, and fisheries programs. Legislative updates were discussed regarding wildlife bills and tax check-offs. Additionally, the financial report detailed year-to-date expenditures, revenue through the Go Outdoors system, and the status of various trust funds, noting market performance impacts during March.

The meeting included the presentation of awards and recognition for staff achievements. The Commission reviewed and considered several donations to the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Foundation, the fisheries reservoir habitat program, and for wildlife management area improvements. Discussions were held regarding shooting range projects, the use of predictive genetics for controlling chronic wasting disease, and updates from the Director on departmental calendar items, agency status, and legislative developments. The Commission also reviewed financial reports and held an executive session to discuss pending litigation involving multiple legal cases.

The commission meeting included presentations on donations for fisheries habitat improvement and land conservation programs, including contributions from the Oklahoma Hunters and Anglers and the North Fourth chapter of Pheasants Forever. There was an update on the status of various shooting range projects across the state, such as those at Canton, Lexington, and several other wildlife management areas. Additionally, the commission received expert testimony regarding chronic wasting disease and the implications of releasing farm-raised cervids into free-ranging populations.

The meeting commenced with roll call, invocation, and the pledge of allegiance. Key agenda items included the recognition of Marcus Tibido as the recipient of the Joe Kurs Excellence in Wildlife Management Award for his leadership in Rio Grande Wild Turkey conservation and securing over one million dollars in funding. Officer Michael Taylor was also recognized as an NWTF Officer of the Year for his investigation leading to felony charges and $17,000 in restitution against a guide selling fraudulent hunts. Updates were provided on upcoming events, including the Backwood Show, a gala, and various field days related to wildlife management. The Director's Report highlighted strong performance in the 'Go Outdoor' system revenue, completion of winter paddlefish netting activities, and ongoing studies of invasive big-headed carp. Furthermore, agency activities included the ODWC Go Hunt commercial campaign, the 2026 NAS shoots involving nearly 4,000 students, and a Burning Basics workshop. Law Enforcement reported on enforcing UTV/ATV regulations, apprehending thermal hunters, and a poaching case resulting in license revocation. The legislative update focused on key bills tracking committee deadlines and a defined contribution retirement seminar for employees. Finally, the financial report presented the January financials, indicating that expenditures were on track for the fiscal year and noting an increase in trust fund balances compared to the previous year.