Colorado Parks and Wildlife Names New Director

Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan appointed as permanent director after serving as acting director since late 2025.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission has unanimously voted to name Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan as the new permanent director of the agency. Clellan has been serving as acting director since December 2025 and previously held leadership roles with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Why it matters

Clellan's appointment provides stability and continuity for Colorado Parks and Wildlife as the agency works to perpetuate the state's wildlife resources, maintain the state parks system, and offer outdoor recreation opportunities. Her military and conservation background are seen as valuable assets in this role.

The details

Clellan stepped into the acting director role in November 2025 after former Director Jeff Davis stepped down. The commission cited Clellan's steady leadership during her time as acting director as a key factor in her selection as the permanent director. Clellan said she is honored to be selected and looks forward to continuing to work with employees, partners, and communities across Colorado.

  • Clellan has been serving as acting director since December 1, 2025.
  • Clellan will assume her role as permanent director effective immediately.

The players

Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan

The new permanent director of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife agency, having previously served in leadership roles with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Colorado Department of Military and Veterans Affairs.

Jeff Davis

The former director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife who stepped down in November 2025, leading to Clellan's appointment as acting director.

Rich Reading

The chair of the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission, which unanimously voted to appoint Clellan as the permanent director.

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What they’re saying

“This agency's mission to perpetuate the state's wildlife resources, provide a quality state parks system, and offer enjoyable and sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities for current and future generations is something I care deeply about, and I'm grateful for the trust the Commission has placed in me.”

— Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan (cbsnews.com)

“Clellan has already demonstrated her strong leadership skills and deft abilities at handling complex problems. I look forward to working with Director Clellan during the rest of my tenure on the Parks and Wildlife Commission and am confident she will excel in this position.”

— Rich Reading, Commission Chair (cbsnews.com)

The takeaway

Maj. Gen. Laura Clellan's appointment as the permanent director of Colorado Parks and Wildlife provides stability and continuity for the agency as it works to fulfill its mission of conserving the state's natural resources and providing outdoor recreation opportunities for Coloradans.