Here's the press release:
May 12, 2011
Alaska Department of Fish and Game announces new subsistence director and Board of Fisheries executive director
JUNEAU — Commissioner Cora Campbell recently filled two leadership positions for the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Hazel Nelson was appointed director of the Division of Subsistence, and Monica Wellard has been appointed executive director of the Board of Fisheries.
"I'm pleased that Hazel Nelson and Monica Wellard have joined the department's leadership team. Both are highly respected professionals with excellent leadership skills and experience," Campbell said. "I look forward to their contributions to the department and the public."
Hazel Nelson's many years of experience include hands-on work with state and federal resource regulatory processes, local governments and economic development bodies. She has worked with the North Pacific Fishery Management Council, the Lake and Peninsula Borough, Bristol Bay Economic Development Corp., the U.S.-Russia Intergovernmental Consultative Committee and the Southwest Alaska Municipal Conference. Hazel was born and raised in Egegik and understands the importance of providing sustainable subsistence opportunities for all Alaskans. She will be stationed in the Anchorage office.
Monica Wellard has 18 years of service with ADF&G in which she has held several positions, each with increasing levels of responsibility and authority. Wellard served for five years as assistant director with the Division of Sport Fish, and previously held the administrative operations manager position with the Division of Commercial Fisheries. Her experience and familiarity with fisheries are great assets in her new position. Monica will be stationed in the Juneau headquarters office.
Nelson takes over the lead position in the Division of Subsistence from Jim Simon, subsistence program manager, who has been serving as acting director for the last few months. Wellard will replace Jim Marcotte, who is retiring after 28 years with the department.