MS HC53

Recognizes and honors Dr. Sam Polles upon his retirement as the longest-serving Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks after 29 years of service

Dr. Polles was appointed Executive Director in July 1992 by Governor Kirk Fordice and served under five governors during his career

Key accomplishments include expanding Wildlife Management Areas, implementing point-of-sale licensing systems, developing shooting facilities at McIvor, McHenry, and Turcotte, and constructing the new Mississippi Museum of Natural Science and state office headquarters

Established the Conservation Officer Training Academy at Holmes County State Park and created a statewide Special Response Team within the Law Enforcement Division for disaster response

Implemented youth programs including Archery in Schools and Scholastic Shooting programs to promote outdoor recreation