Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation

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.

Key agenda items for the meeting include the call to order, roll call, invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, introduction of guests, and presentation of awards, including recognition for 25 years of service by Kristen Gillman. Significant presentations involve the FY 2025 Annual Financial Audit and a report on trends in Oklahoma hunting and fishing license sales. The Commission will consider and vote on the financial reports from December 31, 2025, including miscellaneous donations. The agenda includes consideration of minutes from the January 12, 2026, regular meeting. The Director's Report will cover calendar items, agency updates, and the Oklahoma Legislative Update. The agenda also lists two possible Executive Sessions: one for the discussion and potential purchase of real properties in Cleveland, Jefferson, and Love Counties, and another for confidential communications with outside counsel regarding ongoing litigation cases. New Business is reserved for unforeseen matters.

The agenda for the regular meeting includes several presentations and discussions. Key discussion points involve a presentation by Pheasants Forever/Quail Forever on habitat programs, consideration of a significant donation from the National Wild Turkey Federation for wildlife management areas and youth shooting programs, and overviews of the Wildlife Division's Drummond Flats WMA wetland restoration progress and the Fisheries Division's walleye and saugeye spawning program. The Commission will also address the Director's Report, review calendar items, legislative updates, and an FY26 budget revision. Furthermore, there is a potential for an executive session to discuss confidential legal matters concerning litigation and an Attorney General Opinion.