The National Wildlife Refuge Association wholeheartedly supports Martha Williams in her role as the director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). In a recent letter to the Administration, a group of concerned scientists called for the resignation or dismissal of Director Williams. They claim she lacks the required scientific and educational background to serve in this position, despite her impressive experience in fisheries and wildlife management and environmental law and policy.

Director Williams previously served as the Director of the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) and as the Vice President of the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. She had also previously served the Montana Department of FWP as a legal counsel. During the Obama Administration, Williams served as Deputy Solicitor for Parks and Wildlife at the Department of the Interior, providing counsel to the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service. Williams was also an Assistant Professor of Law at the Blewett School of Law at the University of Montana, where she taught fundamental environmental law courses, co-directed the university’s Land Use and Natural Resources Clinic, and co-supervised the Public Land and Resources Law Review and the Environmental Law Group.

Ultimately, the Senate holds the authority to determine an individual’s suitability and qualifications to serve as the USFWS Director. Director Williams was sworn in as the 23rd Director of the USFWS with strong bipartisan support in March 2022. The National Wildlife Refuge was proud to support Martha Williams during her Senate confirmation and in her previous role as Acting USFWS Director. The National Wildlife Refuge Association has appreciated the experience and perspectives Director Williams has brought to the agency since her appointment and will continue supporting her public servant tenure.