Federation News -

Jeff Hagener Hired as Development Director

Helena, MT - Montana Wildlife Federation, the oldest and largest citizen-based non-profit organization of hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, is pleased to announce the hiring of Jeff Hagener, former Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Director. Jeff will join MWF in Helena as the Director of Development effective January 2011.

Hagener has over 30 years experience working in land, fish and wildlife management, and conservation.  His experience ranges from being a packer and guide in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, to conducting range and wildlife inventories for the BLM, to mine reclamation and state land management at the MT Dept. of State Lands and Natural Resources and Conservation, to eight years as Director of MT Fish, Wildlife & Parks, to the past two years as a Managing Director for the American Prairie Foundation.  Over the years Jeff has received numerous awards for his leadership and accomplishments.

“I am excited to be joining the staff of MWF,” said Hagener.  He added that, “Montana’s outdoor recreation opportunities are enviable throughout the nation and I realize that these opportunities we enjoy today would not exist were it not for the efforts of Montana sportsmen led by MWF and its 23 affiliate clubs.”

Jeff is a native Montanan, born and raised in Havre. Jeff’s father (Louis W.) was a long-time professor (botany, conservation and paleontology) at Northern Montana College.  Jeff’s mother (Toni) was a local teacher, county commissioner and state representative and continues to reside in Havre.  Jeff holds degrees from both the University of Montana and Montana State University in Wildlife Biology and Agriculture/Range Science respectively.

Jeff has been an avid outdoorsman ever since he was old enough to accompany his father and brothers to the field.  These outdoor experiences shaped his goals of working in the area of wildlife, hunting and angling.

Jeff is married and has two children.  Spouse Debbie is a Registered Nurse at Ft. Harrison V.A. Hospital.  His daughter Kirstin is a practicing Physical Therapist in Tucson and son Ryan is a 2nd Lt., a graduate of the U. S. Air Force Academy, currently stationed in Afghanistan.

MWF Executive Director, Craig Sharpe said, “Jeff understands the interests of our constituents, hunters, anglers, wildlife and outdoor enthusiasts and the value of a 75 year old citizen based organization that stands up for sportspersons and wildlife.  He will be a tremendous asset as MWF continues to grow its membership and funding that support efforts to advance issue engagement on behalf of sportspersons and wildlife.”