Gov. Nixon appoints St. Louisan to Conservation Commission

Courtesy Missouri Department of Conservation

Jim Blair is an ardent conservationist and has been active in several conservation groups including Ducks Unlimited and Conservation Federation of Missouri. 

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Gov. Jay Nixon announced on July 13 the appointment of St. Louis businessman and longtime conservationist James T. Blair IV to the Missouri Conservation Commission. The Governor has appointed Blair (R) to a term that expires June 30, 2017. Blair replaces William F. “Chip” McGeehan of Marshfield whose Commission appointment expired June 30.

“Jim Blair has demonstrated his dedication to conservation in Missouri through his many years of leadership at several of the most pre-eminent conservation organizations in our state,” Gov. Nixon said. “That leadership experience will be of great value on the Conservation Commission in its role of managing the state’s forestry and wildlife resources.”

Missouri Department of Conservation Director Bob Ziehmer praised Blair for his longtime service to and passion for conservation. “Jim Blair’s enthusiasm for conservation and his life experience in both business and outdoor pursuits will prove beneficial in the Commission’s important work.”

Blair is past president of the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation, a current board member for the Conservation Federation of Missouri, and has served on local, state and national committees for Ducks Unlimited. He and his wife, Anna, are avid hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.

Blair also has a family history of commitment to conservation with his father, Jim Tom Blair III, serving as a commissioner from 1965 to 1977.

Blair is a principal and member of the board of directors at Moneta Group LLC, one of the nation’s largest registered investment advisory firms. He is a certified financial planner and an accredited wealth management advisor. He is regularly ranked among the top financial advisors in the country. In addition to his activity in conservation causes, Blair serves as the board director of the St. Louis chapter of the National MS Society, and is an advisory board member for the MS Corporate Achievers Campaign.

The Missouri Conservation Commission controls, manages, restores, conserves and regulates the bird, fish, game, forestry and all wildlife resources of the state, including hatcheries, sanctuaries, refuges, reservations and all other property owned, acquired or used for such purposes, as well as the acquisition and establishment of those properties.

Blair’s appointment will be subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate.