Dedicated public servant has nearly three decades of experience in conservation
Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever would like to congratulate former Wyoming Game, Fish and Parks director Brian Nesvik on becoming the new director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). Nesvik was confirmed by the U.S. Senate this afternoon. He was nominated for the position by President Trump on February 12 and will now play a crucial role in the conservation and management of our nation’s wildlife and natural resources.
"Brian is a dedicated public servant and an established leader in the fish and wildlife community," said Ron Leathers, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever’s chief conservation officer. "As the saying goes, 'the world needs more cowboys,' and that's nowhere as true as Washington, DC. As a fellow Wyoming native I'm excited to see him bring his pragmatic and collaborative style to the helm of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and PF & QF stand ready to work with the Director to conserve and restore America's beloved upland landscapes and enhance hunting access for millions of sportsmen and women across the country."
Nesvik began his career as a game warden and spent 29 years with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WYGFD). Most recently, he served as the Director of WYGFD from 2019 until his retirement in 2024. Nesvik also served in the Wyoming Army National Guard for 35 years, retiring as a Brigadier General. He holds a degree in wildlife and fisheries biology and management from the University of Wyoming. Nesvik’s educational and professional background will serve as an ideal foundation to help the USFWS deliver on-the-ground, collaborative and durable conservation across the country.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is a crucial agency for sportsmen and women, fish and wildlife, private landowners, state fish and wildlife agencies and many others. From managing national wildlife refuges, to implementing programs that enhance habitat restoration, the USFWS are the front lines preserving our nation’s resources.