The Western Native Trout Initiative welcomes JD Davis as our new Coordinator as of January 2, 2024. JD has over 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector, including 15 years working for conservation organizations. He recently retired as Yellowstone Forever’s Chief Development Officer after 10 years in the position. In his role, he oversaw fundraising programs and staff that supported wildlife and native fish projects, including over $9 million in recovery projects for Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout in Yellowstone Lake and the Park’s northern range. In this role, he worked closely with Yellowstone biologists to identify needs and provide project updates. Other conservation experience includes large landscape protection for five years as The Nature Conservancy of Montana’s Development Director. JD is based in Bozeman, Montana, and is most excited to immerse himself in WNTI’s mission and projects because they align with his passion for fly fishing throughout Montana and the west. Please welcome JD at jddavis@westernnativetrout.org.
As reported in our August newsletter, Therese Thompson stepped down from her role as Coordinator in December after almost ten years with WNTI and is now on a glide path to retirement. The WNTI Steering Committee and the NFHP Board and Fish Habitat Partnership Coordinators gave Therese two wonderful send-offs that reminded her how hard it is to leave such a meaningful program with so many dedicated people and partners.