Karpowitz said that while he has "lofty goals" for Utah's deer and elk herds, "there are other challenges, like maintaining young hunters and anglers. We're losing them. We have to create opportunities and experiences that will get young people excited about the outdoors, and not only as a consumptive user, but in other areas such as bird watching or attending wildlife festivals.

"We also have to concentrate on sensitive species. We can't afford to have any of them move over to the threatened and endangered list. One of my main objectives will be habitat and watershed improvements. Kevin (Conway) got us started and had great visions. Habitat benefits all species — big game, non-game and fish. It's absolutely critical that we move forward in this area. We have a window of opportunity now that we haven't had for many years. We have some money, and we have public support, and there is a lot of habitat work to be done."

Bill Christensen, field director for the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, said he has worked with Karpowitz in the past, "and I've been impressed. He's done a good job."

Paul Dremann, with Trout Unlimited, said his organization had supported Moretti and had a lot of confidence in him. "Now, we'll be happy to work with the new administration and see how this all works out. We anticipate a good working relationship and feel sure he'll support not only big game, but also birds and fish."

Tony Abbott, with the Mule Deer Federation, said his group was anxious to work with Karpowitz and see him as a good biologist and a "benefit to big game. Jim can help take the agency to the next level."

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