Dear Fellow CCA Members:
In a unanimous decision the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission voted to approve Debbie
Colbert as the next director for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. Colbert replaces
Curt Melcher, who retired in April.
Colbert’s appointment is a win for all anglers and hunters in Oregon.
As an organization we are especially pleased with the decision. CCA Oregon sent a letter in
support of Colbert asking the commission and Governor Tina Kotek to listen to the majority of
stakeholders in the state. Colbert had overwhelming support from most fishing and hunting
organizations throughout the state. Put simply, this decision is a big deal for the future of
sportfishing in Oregon!
We know many of you also contacted the Commission to express your support for Dr. Colbert –
thank you!
CCA Oregon looks forward to working with Director Colbert and ODFW staff to address the
challenges many facing sportfishing in Oregon, including funding our hatcheries, the continued
need for harvest reform, and reducing marine mammal predation – to name a few.
Pat Hoglund
CCA Oregon, Executive Director