For Immediate Release: April 18, 2001

Contact: Steff Kessler, GYC Board Chair, (307) 332-9330
Michael Scott, GYC Executive Director, (406) 581-7963 (cell)

Michael Scott to Lead GYC in "Critical Era for Greater Yellowstone"

Bozeman, Montana. The Greater Yellowstone Coalition today named Michael Scott as its new executive director. This completes a four-month national search for a leader who will carry forward the organization¹s vision for protecting the health of the region¹s wildlife, forests, and communities. Scott has gained national prominence for his role in the Gallatin and Church Universal and Triumphant land exchanges -- landmark conservation efforts that brought tens of thousands of acres into public ownership.

"Michael Scott is a nationally recognized figure in conservation," said Steff Kessler, GYC's Board Chair. "Greater Yellowstone faces many new challenges and Michael has demonstrated that he has the vision and leadership skills to work with a broad array of interests who may not always agree, but who do agree on the importance of protecting this special place."

"Michael understands as well as anyone I know why Greater Yellowstone has endured as a place of clean water, abundant wildlife, and outstanding recreational opportunities," said Mike Clark, GYC¹s departing executive director. "Michael¹s experience working with communities, scientists, and local, state and federal governments, has made him a great listener and a unique leader. He¹s attuned to the region¹s irreplaceable values."

For the last 20 years, Scott has worked for the protection of wild lands in the Northern Rockies. Headquartered in Bozeman, Montana, with field offices in Jackson, Wyoming, and Idaho Falls, Idaho, GYC focuses specifically on protection of the world¹s first national park and the lands that surround it.

"We are entering a critical era for Greater Yellowstone," said Scott. "My tenure as GYC director begins as efforts mount to weaken environmental protections. Aggressive oil and gas development, road-building on sensitive lands, and sprawl threaten the region¹s balance and the stability of our communities."

As GYC¹s executive director, Scott said he will continue the organization¹s emphasis on finding solutions for the future health of the region.

"Greater Yellowstone is one of the world¹s premiere places," Scott said. "My work will have fulfilled a dream if, as director of GYC, the organization has helped to ensure that our children inherit a Greater Yellowstone in which nature thrives."