WASHINGTON, D.C. – July 29TH, 2024 –The National Wildlife Refuge Association is announcing the upcoming departure of President Geoffrey Haskett, initiating a search for his successor. Haskett, who has served as President for the past seven years and has been based in Grants Pass, Oregon for the last two years, will be stepping down. The Board has decided to relocate the President position to the Washington, D.C. area. While the exact date of Haskett's departure is still to be determined, he has committed to collaborating with the Board to ensure a seamless transition. The position is now open and the Refuge Association invites qualified candidates to apply.

E. Gray Payne, Chair of the Board, expressed gratitude for Haskett’s leadership: “Geoff, the Board, and I all share a deep appreciation for the incredible work we've accomplished in advocating for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Geoff has successfully led the Refuge Association through challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and has been a strong advocate for the Refuge System and its many refuges across the country.”

Under Haskett’s leadership, the Refuge Association has strengthened its efforts to protect, promote, and enhance America’s wildlife heritage through strategic programs that serve the National Wildlife Refuge System and wildlife beyond its boundaries.

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The National Wildlife Refuge Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting, promoting, and enhancing the 850-million-acre National Wildlife Refuge System, the world’s largest network of lands and waters set aside for wildlife conservation.The organization addresses Refuge System funding, management, and strategic growth, while also promoting programs that maximize the system’s conservation impact.

For all media inquiries and questions, please contact Eden Taylor, Director of Communications & Marketing at etaylor@refugeassociation.org.