Gov. fills seat on Fish and Game Commission following hunting photos controversy
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The following is a news release from Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter.
BOISE — Governor C. L. “Butch” Otter announced the appointment Thursday of a new member to the Idaho Fish and Game Commission, representing southwest Idaho on the seven member panel.
The appointment of Tim Murphy, a former Idaho State Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Director, is effective immediately and subject to confirmation by the Idaho State Senate. In addition to his tenure at the BLM, Murphy worked for a decade as the Director of Fire and Aviation at the National Interagency Fire Center in Boise. Over the course of his career, Murphy has focused on seeking collaborative solutions to challenges affecting the management of wildlife habitat, livestock grazing, energy transmission, recreation and access to public lands.
“Among the challenges facing wildlife management in Idaho, I always keep a keen focus on the value of agricultural land to Idaho’s wildlife and open space,” said Murphy. “Hunting, fishing, trapping, and other wildlife based recreation are key components of life in Idaho. I’m pleased to join the Department as a commissioner for the southwest region and look forward to opportunities to hear and address issues and needs important to Idahoans.”
Murphy is replacing former Idaho Fish and Game Commissioner Blake Fischer and is serving out the remainder of Fischer’s unexpired term, ending June 30, 2022. Fischer was asked to resign in the wake of a series of inappropriate photographs and captions that circulated widely after a hunting trip to Africa.
“I’m grateful to Tim for stepping up once again and serving the public,” said Governor Otter. “For almost 40 years, Tim has shown a capacity for leadership and applying strategic thinking to natural resource management issues. I have no doubt that Tim’s addition to our Fish and Game Commission will enhance the commission and compliment the professionalism we expect in the management of this most precious resource.”
Tim and his wife Mary live in Boise and have three adult children.