Conservation Commissioner Don Bedell reappointed by Gov. Nixon

Gov. Jay Nixon recently announced his reappointment of Don C. Bedell (pictured) to the Missouri Conservation Commission.

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Gov. Jay Nixon recently announced his reappointment of Don C. Bedell of Sikeston to the Missouri Conservation Commission. The Commission protects and manages Missouri’s forest, fish and wildlife resources and provides opportunities for Missourians to use, enjoy, and learn about nature.

“Don Bedell’s service on the Conservation Commission since 2009, including a term as chair, has been exemplary, cementing Missouri’s role as the nationwide leader in conservation,” said Gov. Nixon regarding his July 24 reappointment of Bedell.

Gov. Nixon added that, during the past six years, with Bedell as a member, the Missouri Conservation Commission has seen record harvests of wildlife, and increased numbers of participants in outdoor conservation-related activities, particularly among Missouri’s youth, minority, and disabled populations. The Governor praised the commission for its excellent management of Missouri’s wildlife and forestry resources, even in challenging circumstances.

Conservation Commissioner Don Bedell stated, “It is an honor to have been appointed and serve Missouri citizens these past six years. The combined work and dedication of Department staff and Missouri citizens has resulted in some great conservation achievements over the last six years. The Governor, First Lady, and my fellow Commissioners are great conservationists who continue to help Missouri be a national and world leader in conservation. I am both flattered and humbled to serve a second term on the Conservation Commission.”

Bedell, a Republican, is an accomplished businessman, avid conservationist and enthusiastic sportsman. He is a Life Sponsor of Ducks Unlimited, a Life Member of Quail Unlimited, Inc., a Sustaining Member of the Conservation Federation of Missouri, a Diamond Sponsor of the National Wild Turkey Federation, and a Life Member of Safari Club International.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture and a Master of Science degree in Animal Nutrition with a double minor in biochemistry and wildlife. He is owner of B&B Boats and Bikes in Sikeston and B&R Marine & Cycle in Batesville, Ark. He has founded and run numerous other businesses, primarily in healthcare/nursing home management. He serves on numerous boards of directors and is an advisory board member to the Southeast Missouri State University College of Health and Human Services.

The four members of the Conservation Commission serve six year terms and are appointed by the Governor, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Not more than two Commissioners from the same political party may serve at the same time. Commissioners receive no salary or other compensation. The three other Commissioners are Marilynn J. Bradford of Jefferson City who serves as Commission Chair, David W. Murphy of Columbia who serves as Vice Chair, and James T. Blair, IV, of St. Louis who serves as Secretary.

Commissioner responsibilities are statewide and include serving as the Conservation Department’s policy makers, approving Wildlife Code regulations, strategic planning, budget development and major expenditure decisions, and appointing the director of the Conservation Department.

The Governor has appointed Bedell to a term that ends July 1, 2021. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Missouri Senate.

For more information on MDC and the Conservation Commission, visit mdc.mo.gov/about-us/get-know-us/leaders-and-organizational-structure/meet-conservation-commission.