
At the January 7 meeting of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Commission (LWFC), Commissioner Kevin Sagrera was elected Chairman, and Commissioner Andy Brister was elected Vice Chairman.
“Our family has been a part of Louisiana’s fur industry since the 1930s. But my love for the resource extends beyond the fur and alligator industry; hunting and fishing have been a part of my family since I was a boy,” said Chairman Kevin Sagrera. “I am proud to have the opportunity to serve Louisiana as Chair of the Commission and am committed to moving our state forward to preserve and protect our hunting and fishing opportunities for generations to come.”
Former Chairman, Commissioner Brandon DeCuir, said, “When I came on the commission as Chair, it was to fill an unexpired term. As soon as I joined, the commission faced several controversial issues that impacted the sportsmen of Louisiana. I am proud of the progress made during my term and all that we have accomplished to help protect our natural resources to benefit Louisiana sportsmen and commercial industry,” said Chairman Brandon DeCuir. “My time as Chair was also filled with many firsts for the department, including myself serving as the first African American Chair. I am now excited to be able to pass the torch to my colleague and friend, Kevin Sagrera. Kevin and I joined the commission at the same time, and since day one, I have been amazed at his ability to hear all sides to find the right solution. These are exciting times for the department, and I am eager to see all that will be accomplished during Mr. Sagrera’s term as Chair.”
The Wildlife and Fisheries Commission was created to protect, conserve and replenish the natural resources and wildlife of the state, including all aquatic life. The commission promulgates regulations for hunting, fishing, and trapping and approves programs and policies for the management and conservation of all fish and wildlife in the state.
According to the statute, the commission is comprised of seven members appointed by the governor, subject to senate confirmation. Members include three residents of the coastal parishes of the state who are representatives of the commercial fishing and fur industries and four members from the state at large.