Missouri native chosen to lead Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks

TOPEKA (KSNT) – The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is welcoming in new leadership this month following an announcement from one of the state’s top executives.

The Kansas Office of the Governor announced in a press release that KDWP Secretary Brad Loveless is ending his time with the department. In his place, Chris Kennedy is now appointed to the position of secretary.

“I’m grateful to Secretary Loveless for his steadfast commitment to the State of Kansas and our state’s natural resources over the past five years,” Kelly said. “I’m confident that Chris Kennedy is the steadfast leader needed to guide the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks in its next chapter.”

Kennedy hails from St. Louis, Missouri and grew up shooting, hunting, boating and fishing. He has nearly three decades of experience in the outdoors and dealing with wildlife. He joined the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) in 1996 before he accepted the position as secretary of the KDWP.

“I am honored that Governor Kelly has appointed me to serve the people of Kansas in this capacity,” Chris Kennedy said. “I am delighted that my more than 30 years of experience will further strengthen the KDWP’s mission to conserve and enhance the state’s wildlife and natural resources to be enjoyed by Kansans for generations to come.”

During his time with the MDC, Kennedy managed public waters, increased the agency’s ability to serve locals, educated people about public resources and more. He gained notoriety for his work in managing and restoring aquatic species like alligator gar. He also appeared on National Geographic’s “Monster Fish” and Animal Planet’s “River Monsters” with episodes featuring alligator gar.

“Chris has proven himself a great leader of people with an exceptional understanding of fish, wildlife, and outdoor recreation issues,” Loveless said. “He’s very fortunate to be working with the professionals at Kansas Wildlife and Parks, and conversely, I know they will really appreciate and enjoy working with someone as capable and committed as Chris.”

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