UTAH

DWR names Shirley, a second generation DWR employee, as new director

Aug 19, 2021, 4:26 PM | Updated: 4:46 pm

Justin "J" Shirley has been named as the new director for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. ...

Justin "J" Shirley has been named as the new director for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources. Photo credit: Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

SALT LAKE CITY — Justin “J” Shirley has been named the new director for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (DWR).

The announcement was made Thursday by Brian Steed, director for the  Utah Department of Natural Resources. Shirley’s role as director will begin Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021.

Utah roots

Shirley is a resident of Stockton. He grew up in Elk Ridge and enjoys being outdoors hunting, fishing and hiking with his wife and kids.

“I am a second-generation DWR employee and care deeply about the continued success of the wildlife resources in Utah,” Shirley said. “With over 18 years as an employee with the DWR, I feel that my experience gained through numerous positions within the law enforcement section have uniquely prepared me for the position of director.

As stated in the DWR mission, ‘Wildlife is valuable to everyone.’ I believe in that and have spent my career promoting and instilling a respect for wildlife and wild places with all those I interact with. I look forward to continuing that mission.”

Strong education background

He graduated from the Police Corps in 2002. Later that year, he began working as a conservation officer for the DWR.  He earned both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in wildlife and range resources from Brigham Young University.

“J brings a wealth of knowledge and personal experience to this position, and I feel confident in his ability to oversee the management of Utah’s fish and wildlife,” Steed said. 

Shirley replaces Rory Reynolds at the helm of the DWR. Reynolds served as interim director since Jan. 1, 2021, when then-director Mike Fowlks retired.

Read more:

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Utah

First responders on the scene of an accident involving two trucks carrying fuel on I-15. (UDOT)...

Michael Houck, KSLTV.com

Nearly 100 gallons of fuel spilled after truck accident in West Haven

Hazmat crews were called to clean up gallons of spilled fuel off Interstate 15 after a two-car accident Wednesday afternoon.

5 hours ago

A Granite School District bus is pictured outside of the Capitol in Salt Lake City, on Tuesday, Feb...

Heather Kelly

Changes in store for Granite School District bathrooms

The new bathroom layout in Granite School district has floor-to-ceiling stalls with sinks open to the hallways.

6 hours ago

People walk through the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. (...

Mariah Maynes

Utah consumer sentiment increased in Nov., survey finds

A survey conducted by the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute found that consumers had better views of the economy in November.

9 hours ago

Governor Spencer Cox; Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall; Delta CEO Ed Bastian; DL Chief of Ops, ...

Heather Kelly

Delta pilots are flying high at the new SLC Flight Training Center

SALT LAKE CITY — The new building just west of the Salt Lake International Airport is almost 50,000 square feet.  Currently, it houses both an Airbus 350 and Airbus 320 simulator, with plans to add a Boeing 737 next spring. John Laughter, Senior Vice President of Flight Operations and Chief of Operations for Delta Airlines, […]

11 hours ago

Debbie Worthen, KSL TV

Statewide initiative launched to give back to those in recovery

North Star Recovery & Wellness is leading an effort aimed at helping those in recovery get back on their feet.

13 hours ago

Water begins to flow at Point of the Mountain in Draper as the Central Utah Water Conservancy Distr...

Tammy Kikuchi

Executive Director shares more details on Point of the Mountain development

We're learning more about the long-awaited development plans at the former prison site at the Point of the Mountain.

14 hours ago

Sponsored Articles

an IT tech looks at a laptop in front of a server network...

Comcast Business

Tips to protect yourself from phishing attacks

Check out this resource from Comcast Business to learn more about phishing attacks and how to protect yourself from becoming a victim of one.

A surprise gift, wrapped and ready to bring holiday cheer! Whether for Christmas, a birthday, or an...

Western Nut

10 Holiday Gift Ideas to cover everyone on your list

This guide is for you if you need holiday gift ideas that will make a lasting impression. 

Stressed young woman checking bills, taxes, bank account balance and calculating expenses in the li...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Why you should speak to a Utah lawyer about longstanding IRS tax issues

Hiring a lawyer to navigate longstanding IRS tax issues can make a significant difference in achieving a favorable resolution.

4 construction workers fixing roof against clouds blue sky, install shingles at the top of the hous...

Chipman Roofing

Weather the storms by maintaining your roof

By taking the time to assess your roof's condition and make repairs as needed, you maintain the longevity of your home's stability.

Tax Harassment...

The Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Feeling intimidated by the IRS? 6 Essential facts you should know.

If you are receiving threatening letters and wage garnishments from the IRS, hiring an attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.

Photo courtesy of Nightmare on 13th...

Nightmare on 13th

Here’s why Nightmare on 13th is the best haunted house in Utah

Fall brings Halloween, and Halloween brings Haunted Houses. There’s no better Haunted House than Nightmare on 13th – here’s why!

DWR names Shirley, a second generation DWR employee, as new director