News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2003

GRAY APPOINTED CHIEF OF ODNR DIVISION OF WILDLIFE

COLUMBUS, OH – Steve Gray, a native of Ross County, has been appointed chief of the state’s Division of Wildlife by Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Director Sam Speck. Gray has served as assistant chief of the division since 1991. He replaces Mike Budzik who retires next week, after serving more than seven years as chief of the division.

As chief of the Division of Wildlife, Gray will oversee Ohio's fish and wildlife management programs, as well as management of more than 170,000 acres of state wildlife areas.

“Steve Gray has played a significant role in his 27 years with the department, helping create one of the finest fish and wildlife management programs in the country,” said ODNR Director Sam Speck. “Steve is very well respected here in Ohio and across the nation as a leader in wildlife issues, and I am extremely confident that he will be able to continue to build upon the strong outdoor opportunities we have here in the state.”

Gray began his ODNR career in 1976 as a state wildlife officer in Central Ohio. He has also served as a wildlife officer in Crawford County, an information officer and executive assistant to the chief. In 1991, he became assistant chief with oversight of the division’s fisheries, wildlife, law enforcement and public information programs.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management from The Ohio State University.

Gray and his family reside in Kingston.