Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources

The board meeting included the recognition of staff for their professional achievements. Committee reports were provided for Wildlife and Boat, Finance, Audit and Compliance, Law Enforcement, and Education, Planning, and Outreach. Key actions included adopting various sportfishing, boating, nongame, and wildlife regulation amendments, approving the FY2027 Operating and Capital Budgets, and authorizing proposed increases for certain licenses and fees. Additionally, the board elected the Chair and Vice Chair for the upcoming term, heard updates on fleet management, climate survey results, and various agency programs, and conducted a closed session to discuss the performance of the Director.

The Nomination Committee met to discuss and conduct the selection process for the position of Chair and Vice Chair for the 2026-2027 term.

The committee reviewed the 2025 Agency-Wide Climate Survey, highlighting a mandate for modernizing the agency's focus through expanded public engagement and stakeholder diversification. Additionally, an update was provided on the Recreational Shooting Work Group, covering key objectives, funding impacts, and safety initiatives. The Outreach Division reported on various organized events, including the Elk Lottery, Falcon Cam project, and community hunts. Finally, the Director and Chair delivered reports emphasizing outreach staff contributions and the importance of increasing agency visibility through social media engagement.

The meeting included a presentation on the Law Enforcement Fleet Management Program covering the vehicle lifecycle from acquisition to final teardown. The Law Enforcement Chief provided an update on leadership work sessions, regional meetings, public safety displays, memorial activities, and officer recognition. The Executive Director and the Chair both addressed concerns regarding the current budget and the upcoming budget cycle.

The committee meeting covered several key regulatory and management topics. Staff presented recommendations for amendments to sportfish, boating, nongame, and wildlife regulations, all of which the committee recommended moving forward for public comment. Additional agenda items included a presentation on the Stocked Trout Management Plan and the proposed Good Neighbor Agreement aimed at reducing public health risks and enhancing recreational access. The meeting also included updates on Chronic Wasting Disease, bear mange research and response protocols, as well as a report on the fall turkey workgroup and spring harvest results.