Salt Lake City — Utah Department of Natural Resources Executive Director Joel Ferry named Riley Peck as the new director for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources, effective Monday, Jan. 13.
A resident of Eagle Mountain, Utah County, Peck started working for the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources in 2006 as a native aquatics technician. In 2009, he transitioned to working as a wildlife biologist before eventually being promoted to the Central Regional Wildlife Manager in 2016. He worked in that role until 2019, when he became the Once-In-A-Lifetime Species Coordinator. Peck has served as the division’s legislative liaison from 2019 until now.
With a bachelor’s in biology from the University of Utah and a master’s degree in plant and wildlife science from Brigham Young University, Peck has always had a passion for the outdoors and wildlife conservation.
“I have always loved wildlife, fishing, hunting, camping and all things outdoors and always had a desire to operate in that space,” Peck said. “Getting to do what I am passionate about as a living has been a great privilege, and I feel truly lucky that I have had the opportunity to work in wildlife management. At the DWR, we have made a lot of strides to gather some of the best wildlife data in the entire U.S. As director, I’d like us to continue to build on that and use that information to manage our wildlife species in Utah even more effectively.”
“During his 19-year career with the DWR, Riley has garnered a lot of experience and knowledge and has also proven himself as an exceptional employee — he was recently named the 2024 DNR employee of the year. I feel confident in his ability to oversee the management of Utah’s fish and wildlife,” Ferry said.
Peck grew up in Riverton, and enjoys recreating in the outdoors hunting, fishing and camping with his wife and kids.
Peck replaces former DWR Director J Shirley, who retired Dec. 31, 2024.
About the Department of Natural Resources
The Department of Natural Resources is one of the state’s largest agencies and helps ensure the quality of life of Utah residents by managing and protecting the state’s abundant natural resources, including wildlife, watersheds, recreation, parks, and its energy and minerals portfolio.
Mike Kieffer – Editor-in-Chief, Cedar Valley Sentinel
Mike Kieffer is a dynamic leader and community advocate based in Eagle Mountain, Utah. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the Cedar Valley Sentinel, a local publication dedicated to informing, inspiring, and elevating the Cedar Valley community through honest and accurate journalism. With a passion for fostering connections, Kieffer has made it his mission to highlight local businesses, provide reliable news, and support community development.
Beyond his editorial role, Kieffer is the owner of Lake Mountain Media, LLC, a company specializing in media and communications, and the co-owner of Quail Run Farms, which focuses on sustainable farming and community engagement. He also actively contributes to the local economy and culture as a member of the Eagle Mountain Chamber of Commerce.
Kieffer’s dedication extends to preserving and promoting the history and heritage of the Cedar Valley area. He often participates in community-centered events and media, including podcasts that explore the unique aspects of life in the region. Through his varied endeavors, he remains a steadfast advocate for the growth and enrichment of the local community.
