DENVER ~ In a move towards thoughtful stewardship of Colorado's wildlife, natural resources, and outdoor recreation economy, Governor Jared Polis has appointed two new members to the Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) Commission. Frances Silva Blayney of Colorado Springs and Dr. John Emerick of Redstone have been chosen to join the commission.

Governor Polis expressed his excitement about the appointments, stating that both individuals are well-qualified and will bring people together to bridge divides. He also highlighted the diversity of the appointments, with one Democrat and one Republican, as well as representation from both the Western Slope and Pikes Peak regions. The governor believes that these appointments will help to reduce any politicization of the board.

According to Governor Polis, Frances Silva Blayney and Dr. John Emerick embody Colorado's commitment to conservation, outdoor recreation, and access. He praised their qualifications and stated that he is confident they will be strong voices on the commission for the future of Colorado's outdoor recreation, wildlife, water, and wildlands.

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Frances Silva Blayney brings a wealth of experience to the commission as a professional fly fishing outfitter, small business owner, and longtime public lands advocate. She co-owns Canopy Fly Fishing with her daughter and is actively involved in CPW's River Watch Program. She has also held leadership positions with organizations such as Trout Unlimited and the Sierra Club. With her firsthand knowledge of public land use and passion for protecting ecosystems while maintaining access for sustainable recreation, Silva Blayney will be a valuable addition to the commission.

Barb Luneau, President of the Board of Directors for Colorado Trout Unlimited, praised Governor Polis' appointment of Frances Silva Blayney. Luneau described her as a thoughtful leader in Colorado's fly fishing and conservation communities with a deep connection to rivers, wildlife, and public lands.

Dr. John Emerick brings a scientific perspective to the commission as a retired professor of environmental biology and a leading voice in stream, riparian, and wetland ecology. With a Ph.D. and M.A. from the University of Colorado and a B.S. in fisheries biology from the University of Washington, Dr. Emerick has decades of experience in ecological research and education. He has also served in various public advisory roles and founded multiple watershed health and restoration efforts in the Roaring Fork and Crystal River valleys.

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Dr. Emerick's appointment is rooted in science-based approaches and community partnerships, making him a valuable asset to the commission. As a registered Republican, he brings diversity to the board's political representation.

The Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission is responsible for overseeing the management of the state's parks and wildlife programs. With these new appointments, Governor Polis hopes to continue promoting responsible stewardship of Colorado's natural resources for future generations to enjoy.

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