Yellowstone National Park announced today that longtime superintendent Cam Sholly will depart his post to serve as chief operating officer of the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). Sholly’s eight‑year tenure at the nation’s most visited park was marked by record visitation, a steady response to the COVID‑19 pandemic, and the repair of damage caused by the catastrophic 2022 floods.
Accomplishments at Yellowstone
During his time at Yellowstone, Sholly oversaw $1.5 billion in conservation and infrastructure projects funded by the Great American Outdoors Act and unprecedented philanthropic support. Those investments included historic work to restore native fisheries, protect wildlife, and improve park facilities. Notably, his administration expanded bison transfers to Tribal nations and launched one of the largest public‑private employee housing initiatives in National Park Service history, helping to address a critical workforce shortage.
Career‑long dedication to public lands
Sholly began his career with the National Park Service in 1990 as a seasonal worker at Yellowstone. He later directed the NPS Midwest Region, overseeing 61 parks across 13 states, and helped guide the transformation of Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis. His résumé also includes roles as associate director for visitor and resource protection, superintendent of the Natchez Trace Parkway, chief of ranger operations at Yosemite National Park, and several senior positions at NPS headquarters. In addition to his public‑service record, Sholly served in Operation Desert Storm as a member of the U.S. Army.
Support from the Interior Department
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum praised Sholly’s service, stating, “Cam is an exceptional leader who delivered extraordinary results for Yellowstone National Park and the American people. His dedicated leadership leaves Yellowstone stronger, safer and better prepared for the future. The Department thanks him for nearly 30 years of distinguished service to our treasured parks and country.”
Next steps for Yellowstone
The park noted that an interim superintendent will be appointed while the National Park Service begins the search for a permanent successor. The transition is expected to be smooth, ensuring that ongoing projects and visitor services continue without interruption.
What the move means for conservation
Sholly’s new role at NFWF positions him to influence conservation efforts on a national scale. The foundation, a leading nonprofit partner of the federal government, works to protect lands and waters across the United States. With Sholly’s extensive park‑management experience, the organization is poised to strengthen collaborations between federal agencies, private donors, and local communities.
“Serving as superintendent of Yellowstone has been the greatest professional honor of my life,” Sholly said in the announcement. “Everything we accomplished was made possible by an extraordinary team of employees and partners who care deeply about this park. I look forward to joining the NFWF team and continuing important conservation work on a national scale.”
Sholly’s departure underscores the importance of experienced public servants who can bridge federal stewardship and private partnership, a model that aligns with the nation’s commitment to preserving natural heritage for future generations.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
