Flying somewhat under the radar, Governor Bill Walker has appointed a new member of the Alaska Board of Fisheries, but decided not to make a public announcement by the appointment deadline yesterday.
Robert (Bob) Mumford of Anchorage submitted his application on April 22, several days after Robert Ruffner’s rejection on April 19. He will now step into the seat last held by Karl Johnstone.
Mumford, a retired Fish and Wildlife Trooper, may serve his first year before facing legislative confirmation, but Speaker of the House Mike Chenault has also indicated the Legislature could take up the appointment before finally adjourning for this year.
Kenai Peninsula Senator Peter Micciche previously predicted the Governor would shy away from rumors of Bobbi Quintavell’s appointment…
Sen. Micciche(R-K Pen.): “I’ve been proud of this Governor, we don’t agree on everything, but I’ve been proud of him on his purity on attempting to select a Board of Fish member that has a diversity of interests, as opposed to someone who is controlled by any special interest groups.”
Mumford already has some related experience, serving on the Alaska Board of Game since his 2012 appointment by Governor Sean Parnell. The wildlife photography enthusiast has lived in Alaska for more than 37 years, including some time on the Kenai Peninsula, Palmer/Wasilla, Sand Point, Kodiak, Fairbanks, and Coldfoot.
Mumford’s post-enforcement resume includes a stint as an assistant hunting guide on the Alaska Peninsula, a commercial pilot surveying wildlife, and a pilot for sportsmen in Tok. He’s also served on the Big Game Commercial Services Board over five years.