NDOW Director Tony Wasley Named President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies
NDOW Director Tony Wasley has been elected president of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies (AFWA). Wasley brings nearly 25 years of experience to the table, offering his leadership and knowledge of science-based wildlife and habitat conservation efforts to the national level.
Widely regarded as the voice for state and provincial wildlife agencies and as one of the nation’s leading conservation organizations, AFWA “represents North America’s fish and wildlife agencies to advance sound, science-based management and conservation of fish and wildlife and their habitats in the public interest.” The organization represents state agency members on an international level, ensuring that responsible fish and wildlife conservation policies make their way to the forefront on Capitol Hill.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have been selected to represent such an important organization,” Wasley said. “I look forward to elevating awareness of Nevada-specific wildlife conservation issues, while maintaining the strong momentum and values AFWA is renowned for.”
Wasley’s appointment establishes Nevada as a prominent voice in the country’s habitat and wildlife conservation efforts. Bills that directly affect Nevada’s wildlife and wild spaces—such as Recovering America’s Wildlife Act—will be a priority under Wasley’s leadership.
“Tony Wasley is a leading voice in the national debate over wildlife agency funding models and relevancy,” said Sara Parker Pauley, director of the Missouri Department of Conservation and 2020-21 president of AFWA. “His leadership and innovation will be vital as we forge forward with the challenges and priorities of today.”
In 2013, Wasley was appointed as the director of NDOW. Having been with the Department since 1997, he has demonstrated a passion for the state ’s wildlife and habitat. Tony has also served as President of the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (WAFWA). He chairs the Association’s Education, Outreach, and Diversity Committee, WAFWA’s Sagebrush Executive Oversight Committee, and co-chairs the national Relevancy Working Group.
Wasley is an avid outdoorsman who spends much of his spare time hunting and fishing in Nevada.