NEWS FROM THE DELAWARE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL

August 13, 2009
Vol. 39, No. 344

Contact: Melinda Carl, Public Affairs, (302) 739-9902

                          DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife Review
                             Identifies Opportunities for Improvement

DOVER – Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Collin O’Mara released today an effectiveness review of the Division of Fish and Wildlife conducted by the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies’ Management Assistance Team. The independent review was requested last fall by Division Director Patrick Emory as an internal management tool to identify key areas in need of improvement to better serve the state’s residents and visitors.

The management team noted in the executive summary of the assessment that the Division “is characterized by a dedicated workforce possessing the well-documented fish and wildlife cultural characteristic of working with a ‘missionary-like zeal’ for the resource,” identified as the agency’s greatest strength “from all reports.”

The review explored several elements within the Division, including a focus on identifying key areas  most likely to improve management of the division and produce operational efficiencies.

“The environmental challenges and fiscal realities of today require that we transform DNREC into a model 21st Century department.  This report provides a series of recommendations that will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of key services in the Division of Fish and Wildlife,” said Secretary O’Mara.  “As we work on strengthening the delivery of our main core services and responsibilities across the entire department, we welcome these recommendations and additional ideas for how to improve the stewardship  of our natural resources for current and future generations.”

The management team gathered information from focus groups comprised of a random selection of employees and stakeholders; surveys of employees; and with face-to-face interviews with a random selection of staff members and stakeholders and senior managers.

The team’s assessment concludes and recommends that the Division address direction and alignment, fiscal and project management, and supervision and accountability first and simultaneously rather than sequentially because all three areas are foundational, inter-connected and in need of improvement. A fourth area involves constituent services and broadening the base of support. The team also recommends that the Division keeps the bigger picture in mind as they continue to make improvements.

“A sign of progressive leadership is the willingness to look in the mirror,” notes Dr. John F. Organ, Chief, Division of Fish and Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Delaware’s Division of Fish and Wildlife’s approach to managing fish and wildlife is to do what is in the best interest of the public and the resources.”

The management assessments are funded by a Multi-state Conservation Grant from Federal Aid Sport Fish and Wildlife Restoration monies. Copies of the report are available by contacting the Division of Fish and Wildlife, 302-739-9910.