The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has chosen Michael Kyle Briggs as its new executive director. Briggs, who has worked with the agency since 1994, has been serving as Chief Deputy Director since December 2015.
In this role, he oversaw daily operations and led several divisions, including Law Enforcement, Wildlife Management, Inland Fisheries, and Habitat Conservation. He will officially begin his new role on January 1, 2025.
Briggs brings a lot of experience to the position. Monty Crump, Chairman of the Commission, said Briggs’ deep knowledge of the agency’s operations makes him well-suited for this leadership role. Briggs is expected to continue the agency’s scientific approach to managing the state’s wildlife and fish resources.
A native of Lexington, North Carolina, Briggs has a degree in Fisheries and Wildlife Science from NC State University. He started his career at the Pisgah Forest Hatchery, which is now called the Bobby N. Setzer State Fish Hatchery.
Briggs expressed excitement about leading the agency and working with its dedicated staff to protect North Carolina’s fish and wildlife. The Commission is responsible for managing the state’s wildlife, as well as overseeing hunting, fishing, trapping, and boating regulations.
Cameron Ingram, the retiring executive director, praised Briggs for his strong understanding of wildlife management and his experience as both a scientist and an outdoors enthusiast. Briggs will manage a statewide agency with about 700 employees and a budget of $110 million.
The agency’s work includes managing millions of acres of public lands, running fish hatcheries, and providing recreational opportunities for activities like hunting, fishing, and boating.