DIRECTOR'S PAGE

Director Charles O. Swanton

For those that do not know me, I came to Alaska in 1979 and shortly thereafter began my career with ADF&G as a fisheries technician, progressing to area and regional research and management positions after completing my formal education. I hold biology and fisheries science degrees from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks and University of Washington-Fisheries Research Institute with emphasis in aquatic ecology, population dynamics and statistics. My fondest memories come from field activities coupled with fishing my way across the state with both family and friends. I was appointed to the director's position in August 2007.

Over the last five years the Sport Fish Division has been the benefactor of efforts in 2002 to develop and finalize a strategic plan. This document has, and will continue to be of, great value to division personnel and the public as we move forward. At the time of publication we committed to revisit and update the plan and I am firmly dedicated to upholding that promise to division staff, the public and user groups. In preparation for this task, I ask that you review the current document, and when the time arises be forthcoming with suggestions and recommendations for improvement.

One of my primary goals is to increase efficiency within the Division of Sport Fish in delivering information to the angling public, making scientifically sound management decisions and acquiring information to better understand the fish resources we are entrusted to manage. The modernization of the divisions ailing resident and anadromous species fish hatcheries is a monumental challenge, but at the same time I resoundingly believe it will be of great benefit to current and future anglers across the state.

You can rest assured that under my tenure the division will continue to progress and excel at developing boater access sites, providing a diversity of angling experiences for both resident and non-resident anglers and support the numerous personal use fisheries located across the state.

As our paths cross either fishing or in an other venue, please keep in mind that I have the fish and their habitats first and foremost in my mind, followed closely by satisfaction of the anglers who pay for the privilege to catch and harvest them.

Now, GO FISH!!
Charlie Swanton