Editor's Note: This commentary was originally published by the Billings Gazette on January 18, 2026. The version shown here is abbreviated as a courtesy to BHA members and supporters. BHA encourages Montana residents to please consider supporting local journalism by reading the original in the Billing Gazette.

Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) is proud to announce that Ryan “Cal” Callaghan—longtime BHA supporter, former chair of BHA’s North American Board, and current vice president of conservation at MeatEater—has been named incoming president and CEO of BHA, effective January 1, 2026.

“I’m committed to building on the momentum of the incredible BHA community as a nonpartisan voice leading the charge for conservation."

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 6, 2025  Contact:  Media@backcountryhunters.org    MISSOULA, Mont. —Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) today applauded the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Brian Nesvik as Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). A seasoned wildlife manager, lifelong hunter, former warden, and most recently Chief Law Enforcement and Director of the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, Nesvik brings decades of experience in wildlife management and conservation ...