Dec. 22, 2010

Montpelier, Vt., - Governor-elect Shumlin today announced that Patrick Berry will be the Commissioner of Fish and Wildlife; Kim Royer will be the Deputy Commissioner.

“Pat Berry is a dedicated hunter and angler and possesses a broad background and expertise in Fish and Wildlife issues,” said Shumlin. “Pat’s skills combined with Kim’s expertise of the department and wildlife biology will make them an amazing team. I thank them both for their service”

Pat worked as a fishing guide for almost 10 years, during which time he undertook graduate work in fisheries and freshwater ecology at the University of Montana in Missoula. His research was funded in part by the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, and Montana Trout Unlimited. Upon returning to Vermont, Pat worked on a host of Fish and Wildlife issue for the Vermont Natural Resources Council, and gained extensive expertise in relevant legislative and policy issues critical to the Fish and Wildlife Department. Pat will leave his current job as the Director of Governmental Affairs and Environmental Advancement at Vermont Law School. He received his undergraduate degree from Middlebury College. Pat made sure that both of his young sons had lifetime Vermont hunting and fishing licenses before they turn a year old, and they have become his favorite fishing partners. As Commissioner, Pat’s salary will be approximately $88,000.

“I’m excited about the great team and I look forward to working with all Vermonters who are interested in continuing our strong tradition of hunting, fishing and protecting our wildlife,” said Secretary-designee Markowitz.

Kim Royar has been a wildlife biologist with the Department of Fish and Wildlife for 29 years. She began her career with the Department as a habitat biologist providing technical assistance to private landowners with the goal of enhancing wildlife habitat on private lands. Since 1991 she has been the furbearer project leader, responsible for the conservation and management of Vermont’s 14 furbearer species. To that end she has worked with trappers to promote humane, safe, and efficient trapping practices. Kim’s other passion has been working with private landowner organizations such as Coverts and Vermont Woodland Owners Association to promote wildlife habitat enhancement, education, and conservation on private lands. In addition, she has participated as part of a team working to manage state owned lands for wildlife and public enjoyment. Kim is committed to the conservation of all wildlife species for future generations of Vermonters. As Deputy Commissioner, Kim’s salary will be approximately $72,000.