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Press Release     July 7, 2015

New Members Appointed to Conservation Advisory Board

Patrick V. Cagle of Montgomery, Gary Wolfe of Fairhope and Ben C. Stimpson, Jr. of Mobile are new appointees to the Alabama Conservation Advisory Board by Gov. Robert Bentley.

Cagle worked extensively to promote the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association for two years before becoming executive director of the JobKeeper Alliance.

“As a lifelong deer, turkey, and duck hunter, I have experienced each of the diverse hunting opportunities available in Alabama, including pursuing game on public land, privately leased land, both large and small tracts of private land, and at lodges with professional guides,” Cagle said. “I am also an avid nearshore and offshore fisherman, spearfishing enthusiast and an experienced scuba diver with hundreds of dives logged in the Gulf and inland lakes. 

“During the two years I provided marketing services for the Alabama Black Belt Adventures Association, I worked closely with the board of directors, state officials, lodge owners, and nationally known fishing and hunting celebrities to strengthen the economy of Alabama’s Black Belt by promoting the region’s world-class hunting and fishing opportunities.” 

Wolfe, a native of Monroeville, owns funeral homes and crematory services in Baldwin County and is a former president of the Alabama Funeral Directors Association.

Wolfe said he has always hunted and fished, but his priorities have changed in recent years.

“In addition to hunting dove, deer and turkey on property I own and lease here in Alabama, I have had the good fortune to hunt a variety of game in other states,” Wolfe said. “As I have entered my mature years, I have developed an interest in management of wildlife. My focus now is to produce a quality hunting experience for my family and friends by intensive wildlife management practices. It is an honor and privilege to serve on the Alabama Conservation Advisory Board.” 

Ben C. Stimpson, Jr. is director of corporate operations for Scotch Gulf and Canfor Southern Pine. He has served on the boards of numerous organizations including the Alabama State Port Authority, the Alabama Wildlife Federation and the Southeastern Lumberman’s Manufacturers Association.

“I am honored and humbled to be appointed to the Conservation Advisory Board,” Stimpson said. “My family has been very active with wildlife and forest management within our state as well as at the national level for generations. I am passionate about preserving our hunting and fishing heritage through proper management and biologically based game and fish laws. In addition, I believe in supporting our state conservation department biologists and game wardens who are the gatekeepers of our incredible resource.”

Gov. Bentley also reappointed three current board members to new terms: Grady Hartzog of Eufaula, T.J. Bunn of Tuscaloosa and Joseph (Joey) Dobbs, Jr., of Bessemer. Dr. Warren Strickland of Huntsville was appointed chairman.

The Conservation Advisory Board is composed of 10 members appointed by the Governor for alternating terms of six years, and three ex-officio members:  the Governor, the Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries, and the Director of the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. The Commissioner of Conservation and Natural Resources serves as the ex-officio secretary of the board. 

The board assists in formulating policies for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and examines all rules and regulations. By a two-thirds vote of the members present and with the Governor’s approval, the board can amend, change or repeal current rules and regulations or create and promulgate additional rules and regulations. The board also assists in publicizing the department’s programs and activities.

Patrick V. Cagle

Gary Wolfe

Ben C. Stimpson, Jr.

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources promotes wise stewardship, management and enjoyment of Alabama’s natural resources through four divisions: Marine Resources, State Parks, State Lands, and Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. To learn more about ADCNR visit www.outdooralabama.com.