The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

The Nature Conservancy in Wyoming is pleased to announce Arlen Lancaster as its new conservation initiatives director. Former chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Lancaster’s dedication to public service and experience in conservation policy make him a perfect fit for the position.

“Arlen Lancaster’s strong background in agricultural policy and his passion for conservation will help shape our efforts to keep Wyoming wild and working,” said Andrea Erickson-Quiroz, state director of The Nature Conservancy in Wyoming.

In his new role, Lancaster will lead statewide conservation initiatives for the Wyoming chapter that help shape overall strategic direction. He will work with a diverse group of stakeholders to develop conservation goals and implement projects that seek to protect Wyoming’s most valuable natural resources. Lancaster will also oversee management and stewardship of the Conservancy in Wyoming’s five preserves and ranches, as well as conservation planning, applied research and other technical expertise.

Lancaster has held several high-level positions with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. As head of the NRCS, he led many federal efforts to work directly with private landowners to conserve, maintain and improve their natural resources. He has a strong background in public policy having worked in numerous senior staff positions in the U.S. Senate, including service as a senior policy advisor to Idaho Senator Mike Crapo.

"My wife and I are excited to be returning to the West and making our home in a state with such a strong history of stewardship,” said Lancaster. “I look forward to working with the people of Wyoming to protect the places and lifestyles that are important to them."

Lancaster is a graduate of the University of Utah, and an avid fly fisherman and outdoor recreationist. He and his wife Staci have relocated from Alexandria, Virginia to Lander.