Meghan Hertel, left, has officially been sworn in as Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Photo courtesy of California Department of Fish and Wildlife

CALIFORNIA (MPG) - California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) is thrilled to announce that Meghan Hertel has officially been sworn in as Director of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Hertel is a dynamic leader with a deep commitment to science-based conservation and wildlife stewardship. Her vision and experience will be instrumental as CDFW continues advancing the department’s mission to manage California’s extraordinary biodiversity and natural resources.

As Director, Hertel will lead the Department’s work managing fish and wildlife populations, restoring habitat, supporting sustainable hunting and fishing opportunities and partnering with rural communities, Tribes, landowners and outdoor recreationists across California.

Hertel joined the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) in February 2024 as Deputy Secretary of Biodiversity and Habitat. In that role, she led the agency’s efforts to conserve biodiversity and improve habitat across the state through implementation of California’s 30x30 strategy, conserving 30 percent of California’s lands and coastal waters by 2030 ensuring thriving habitats and opportunities for outdoor recreation. She was also instrumental in helping to enact the Cutting Green Tape initiative, which accelerate the pace and scale of habitat restoration.

Prior to her time at the California Natural Resources Agency, Hertel served as North American Director for Land Life, a technology-driven nature restoration company and spent more than a decade with Audubon California including leading innovative statewide conservation programs focused on inland water systems and working lands — building durable partnerships and delivering meaningful, on-the-ground results.

This is a proud and pivotal moment for the Department. With Hertel at the helm, CDFW  is energized, optimistic and ready to continue advancing the organizations mission to protect California’s fish, wildlife and habitats for generations to come.