Ag News

New directors named for Georgia WRD, GEFA

On Nov. 14, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources announced Chris Harper as director of its Wildlife Resources Division (WRD). On Nov. 13, Gov. Brian Kemp announced Trey Bennett as executive director of the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA).

Harper has worked with the WRD since 1999, most recently serving as assistant chief of Fisheries Management Section. Over his career, he has held roles as a fisheries biologist, statewide fish hatchery coordinator, and fisheries technician, gaining extensive experience in resource management, facility operations, and staff development. He is committed to promoting sound stewardship of Georgia’s natural resources and expanding opportunities for outdoor enjoyment.

Harper holds a master’s degree in wildlife and fisheries biology from Clemson University and a bachelor’s degree in biology from Armstrong State University. He enjoys fishing, hiking, and woodworking, and lives in Watkinsville with his wife and three children.

As director, Harper will lead DNR’s division that is tasked with conserving and promoting fishing, hunting, and wildlife resources through management, education, and scientific research. The WRD is comprised of four sections: Game Management, Fisheries Management, Wildlife Conservation, and Communication, Education and Outreach.

Harper succeeds current WRD Director Ted Will, who will retire in December following more than 25 years of dedicated service to the department.

Bennett received approval from the GEFA board of directors and began work in his new position on Nov. 16.

Bennett currently serves as general counsel and Grants Division director in the Governor's Office of Planning and Budget (OPB). A seasoned attorney and public policy advisor, Bennett has over a decade of legal and governmental experience, including past service as deputy executive counsel to Gov. Kemp, under whom he drafted and advocated for key legislative measures and advised on the state’s response to the COVID-19 Pandemic. In his role at OPB, he oversaw the efficient administration of the $4.8 billion State Fiscal Recovery Fund, supporting numerous grant projects across Georgia. Prior to joining Gov. Kemp's administration in 2020, Bennett practiced law as an assistant district attorney and private litigator in Northeast Georgia. He holds a juris doctor degree from the University of Georgia and lives in Hoschton with his wife, Katherine, and their four children.

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