Contact(s):
John Donnelly, Wildlife Conservation Board (916) 445-8448

The Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) has named Interim WCB Executive Director John Donnelly to the position of executive director following a national search.

He has served as interim executive director since September of 2006, replacing Al Wright, who retired after nearly six years in the position. Formerly, Donnelly served as WCB assistant executive director from 2004 to 2006. He has also managed the board's acquisition programs since 2001.

"John Donnelly's experience and background in complex land acquisitions and large scale habitat conservation planning is an excellent fit for WCB programs," said California Fish and Game Director Ryan Broddrick. "His ability to recognize the needs of the public and the state's fish, wildlife and habitat resources will serve as a tremendous asset in finding solutions to the complex issues we face in conserving these treasured natural resources."

Donnelly, 44, of Elk Grove, began his public service career with the Department of Fish and Game (DFG) in 1988 where was the realty services coordinator. He focused on the acquisition of mitigation properties required under California Endangered Species Act and streambed alteration agreements issued by DFG. In 1996, he became WCB's senior land agent.

Donnelly holds a Bachelor's degree in business administration from California State University, Sacramento. He has served as president of the Organization of Wildlife Lands and Realty Specialists, an affiliate of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

The Legislature created the WCB in 1947 to administer a program for wildlife conservation and related public access. The board selects and allocates funds for the purchase of land and waters suitable for protection and restoration of fish and wildlife habitat and compatible recreational uses.

Since 2000, the board has provided funds to protect and restore more than 750,000 acres of habitat in California.

Fred Klass, Chief Operating Officer for the Department of Finance, representing Director Michael Genest said, "All candidates were carefully considered. Through this thorough and competitive process the board clearly selected the best person for the job. I'm looking forward to working with John in carrying out the Wildlife Conservation Board's programs."

WCB consists of the president of the Fish and Game Commission, the director of DFG and the director of the Department of Finance. Legislation that created WCB also established a legislative advisory committee consisting of three members of the Senate and three members of the Assembly, which meet with WCB and provide legislative oversight.