ARCHIVED NEWS RELEASE
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News release
Sam Montgomery, 360-688-0721
OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) has named Rian Sallee as the new director of its Southwest Region.
Sallee has worked at the Washington State Department of Ecology since 2015, most recently as manager of the Vancouver Field Office. While in her position, she collaborated across disciplines and with communities to find workable solutions to issues impacting partners in the region. Her work also focused on environmental justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion. Throughout her career, she has worked in the nonprofit, private, and government sectors on environmental protection and conservation, specializing in water quality policy.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to work in Ridgefield and advance WDFW’s mission by continuing to build relationships with people who live and recreate in our region,” Sallee said. “I’ve spent my career working in natural resources, and I look forward to bringing that expertise to southwest Washington.”
Sallee will assume her new role beginning May 1. Reporting directly to WDFW Director Kelly Susewind, Sallee will serve as the lead for regional issues in Clark, Cowlitz, Klickitat, Lewis, Skamania, and Wahkiakum counties.
“Rian has shown herself to be a connector with a deep understanding of the intersection of people, science, and policy,” said WDFW Director Kelly Susewind. “I’m confident that she’ll be a strong leader and effective communicator with the many diverse communities of the region.”
Sallee said she looks forward to connecting with tribal partners, local communities and stakeholders, to better understand on the ground needs and learn how WDFW can strengthen its services for the region.
Sallee serves as Vice-Chair of the Board of the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership. She is from the Midwest and spent years living and working on Lake Erie which instilled in her a passion for and commitment to natural resource conservation and environmental protection.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish, wildlife, and recreational and commercial opportunities.