(WASHINGTON, D.C.) -- The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA), the professional association that serves as the collective voice of North America's state, provincial and territorial fish and wildlife agencies, is proud to announce that Arizona Game and Fish Department Director Larry D. Voyles has been selected as the organization's incoming President for 2014-2015.

Voyles has served in other posts within AFWA, including a term as the Association's Vice President. Outgoing President Dan Forster, director of the Georgia Wildlife Resources Division, had high praise for his successor.

"Larry Voyles is a true leader and a conservation visionary who will leave a lasting imprint on our organization," said Forster. "He understands the vital role played by state and provincial wildlife officials in the conservation of North American species and habitats, and we expect President Voyles will excel at representing both wildlife conservation professionals and the North American species we hold in trust."

"North America is truly blessed to have the directors of the state and provincial wildlife agencies delivering conservation on a continental scale," said incoming President Voyles. "These dedicated conservation professionals are able to deliver nearly $4.5 billion of conservation in the US alone because of amazing coordinating capabilities of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and the regional associations with which we're affiliated."

AFWA represents its state agency members on Capitol Hill and before the Administration to advance favorable fish and wildlife conservation policy and funding, and works collaboratively on important national and international wildlife issues. The Association also provides member agencies with coordination services on programs and policies on topics such as birds, fish habitat, energy development, climate change, wildlife action plans, conservation education, leadership training and international relations.

Arizona Game and Fish Commission Chairman Robert Mansell is pleased that Voyles has been elected AFWA president. "Director Voyles is most adept at bringing diverse groups to the table in the interests of advancing wildlife conservation," said Chairman Mansell. "We are proud of his achievement and look forward to the benefits that this year will bring to Arizona's wildlife."

"The public's goodwill can ultimately guarantee our continent's wildlife legacy," said President Voyles, "so we absolutely must tell those we serve the story of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation because it explains who we are, where we come from, how we do business, and why."

For more information about the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, visit http://www.fishwildlife.org



Did you know?
Arizona hunting and fishing licenses are a great value. You can get combination hunting and fishing licenses for a family of four for less than the price of one night in a motel. Great Outdoors, Great Value! www.azgfd.gov/eservices/licenses_newFees.shtml