Kevin strives to make a positive difference for current and future generations each and every day. His passion for South Dakota’s outdoor resources is unmatched and that passion and excitement is focused on contributing to the excellent quality of life we have here in South Dakota. He takes pride in leading the team at the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) to ensure services, programs, and solutions are delivered effectively while making certain that our state’s natural resources are managed responsibly and to the best of our abilities. Customer service is his focus because it is the foundation of who we are as a department. Kevin is widely known for his ability to connect with others and build relationships because a significant amount of his time is spent listening to customers, and agricultural producers and working with staff to accommodate their needs and the needs of others.
This is all backed by his education and his hard work ethic. Kevin received his bachelor’s and master’s degree in wildlife and fisheries science from South Dakota State University and began his career with the department in 2011. He was first hired on as a resource biologist in Sioux Falls and was promoted to a big game biologist in 2012 out of Rapid City. In 2017, he transitioned into a statewide leadership role working directly under the Department Secretary. In this position he focused on strategic change initiatives - working with the GFP Commission and the state Legislature - to enhance recreational opportunities and simplify regulations to continuously reduce barriers to outdoor participation in South Dakota.
Kevin is who he is because of his family. He and his wife, Holly, have three young children – Sawyer, Reese, and Cash. He grew up on a farm and the great outdoors and agriculture have always been – and remain – a huge part of his life. When Kevin is not at home or in the office, he is outside. From camping in our state parks to big and small game hunting across the state, people can find him on the lake, in a tent, on a horse, or on a tractor feeding his cows with a young one right beside him.