Gov. Hutchinson appoints Chris Colclasure as director of state Natural Resources Division

Gov. Asa Hutchinson appointed Chris Colclasure as director of its Natural Resources Division, part of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.

“Chris will make an outstanding addition to the Department of Agriculture. His experience with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission provides him with a beneficial skillset to lead the Natural Resources Division. I’m excited for him and the Department of Agriculture,” Hutchinson said.

Colclasure most recently served as Deputy Director at the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission where he supervised nine of its 12 divisions at different times during his five years with the agency. Prior to joining the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, he served in several capacities at the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission for 14 years, including as director from 2013 to 2016.

Colclasure began his more than 21 years of experience in Arkansas state government in the floodplain management section of the Natural Resources Division.

“Chris has a broad range of experience and understands the importance of natural resources and conservation programs to the agriculture industry and the state of Arkansas,” said Wes Ward, Arkansas Secretary of Agriculture. “His experience and leadership in working with a wide range of industry partners and stakeholders will serve the Natural Resources Division and our state well. We look forward to having him as part of the team at the Arkansas Department of Agriculture.”

“It is an absolute honor to be appointed to serve as the director of the Natural Resources Division. I have always appreciated and respected the role and services that this agency provides to our public. I am excited about the opportunity and look forward to working with the staff, commissioners, and partners on the many natural resource challenges in our state,” said Colclasure.