Doug Vincent-Lang Appoints Three to Key Leadership Roles at the ADF&G
December 27, 2018
Vincent-Lang has appointed Benjamin J. Mulligan Deputy Commissioner effective Jan. 3, 2019. Also appointed are Edward K. Grasser Director of the Division of Wildlife Conservation effective Dec. 26 and Rick Green Special Assistant to the Commissioner began work Dec. 17.
"These are talented individuals who will play integral roles as the department renews its focus on putting food on the plates of Alaskans, protecting and maintaining the state's management authority, building dialogue and trust, and ensuring that the department is contributing to the economy and well-being of our citizens," said Vincent-Lang. As deputy commissioner, Mulligan will be responsible for overseeing statewide fisheries and wildlife regulatory and management issues. He will also act as chief of staff to the commissioner. Mulligan brings to his new role a long, successful history in the business community, working closely with lawmakers and on fisheries-related issues. He acted as special assistant and legislative liaison for ADF&G from 2010 to 2015 before joining the Alaska State Chamber of Commerce where he currently serves as vice-president. Prior to his five years at the department, he worked for Rep. Bill Stoltze in a variety of positions including chief of staff. He earned his B.S. in biology with a fisheries emphasis from the University of Wyoming. "I have appreciated the complexity and importance of fish and wildlife issues in Alaska since I started work at my first fisheries technician job in Bristol Bay," said Mulligan. "The department is full of Alaskans who love their jobs and the resource they help manage. I look forward to working on those issues with them once again on behalf of the commissioner and all Alaskans." Rick Green, who is perhaps best known as top-rated radio talk show host Rick Rydell, will be charged with outreach to user groups as special assistant to the commissioner. Green will work closely with the state's hunters and fishers to improve communication and build trust. Green has hosted the popular Rick Rydell radio show focused on local and statewide politics since 2001. An accomplished outdoorsman, Green has written two books. He is a lifelong member of the National Rifle Association, a member of the Outdoor Council and a former hunting and fishing guide. He served on the Fish and Game Advisory Council for three years. "Fish and Game in Alaska has always been my passion," said Green. "I'm thrilled to work under Gov. Dunleavy and Commissioner Vincent-Lang to work to restore trust in the department, build communication and serve the public." Incoming director of the Division of Wildlife Conservation Edward K. Grasser has worked on issues and activities related to wildlife and wildlife conservation for more than 50 years. He spent five years as chief of staff for the Alaska State Legislature House Resources Committee before opening Grassroots Strategies, a consulting firm specializing in natural resources advocacy work. Grasser has been vice-president of Safari Club International since 2013. He has played active roles with the Alaska Outdoor Council, the Alaska Fish and Wildlife Federation and other outdoor groups. In addition to his long history advocating for wildlife conservation, Grasser acted as special assistant to the commissioner of ADF&G from 2005 to 2006. "I look forward to working with everyone and helping the division provide stronger conservation measures that will benefit all Alaskans," said Grasser.
Editing by Mary Kauffman, SitNews
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