The DNR has named Paul Telander of Bemidji its wildlife section chief, replacing Dennis Simon, who retired recently.
Telander is a 28-year wildlife management veteran who will assume his new post Dec. 5.
"Paul is an experienced wildlife manager and administrator who brings a strong track record of effectively working on complex wildlife management issues," said Ed Boggess, division director.
Telander is now the regional wildlife manager for the DNR's northwest region, and has been since 2005. He's also managed the 55,000 acre Thief Lake Wildlife Management Area.
"Paul has been a leader in addressing some very difficult and high profile issues such as elk management, bovine tuberculosis and Con-Con land issues," Boggess said. "He will be able to put that experience and skill to good use in working through broader statewide wildlife and habitat management issues."
As wildlife section chief, Telander will oversee a $47.2 million annual wildlife section budget and a staff of 220 full-time and 81 part-time employees.
Telander holds a BS in wildlife management from the University of Minnesota.
