About ACI
Who We Are
The Association for Conservation Information (ACI) is a dynamic network of natural resource communicators - storytellers, creatives, and educators - working to connect people with the outdoors and inspire conservation.
Our members represent state, federal and Canadian wildlife and parks agencies, along with private conservation organizations. We're the ones behind the videos, social posts, education campaigns, articles, podcasts, signs and outreach efforts that help people care about conservation and the outdoors.
What We Do
Since 1938 (yep, we've got some history), ACI has brought together professionals who share a passion for conservation and communication. We provide training, fresh ideas, and a space to exchange knowledge and creativity, and today we're a growing crew of passionate pros who share ideas, learn from each other, and help each other get better at what we do. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, ACI helps you grow your skills and connect with others doing the same work.
Why It Matters
Good communication is essential to conservation. That's why ACI supports the people behind the message - helping them stay sharp, stay inspired, and make a real impact. We are Where Outdoor Communicators Connect!
What Our Members Do
Most member agencies are involved in the full range of public information and education activities, three of which are paramount: news releases, printed publications and electronic media. Newer focal areas of our work include video, social media, apps and data management.
Learn More About Our Members
Officers:
President: Aaron Meier, Nevada Department of Wildlife
Vice President: Linda DiPiano, New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife
Secretary: Lance Cherry, Council to Advance Hunting and the Shooting Sports
Treasurer: Dan Dennison, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources (retired)
Immediate Past President: Blake Podhajsky, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
2026 Conference Coordinator: Blake Podhajsky, Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation
Board of Directors:
Brent Drinkut, Indiana Department of Natural Resources (2026)
Bobby Jones, Nevada Department of Wildlife (2026)
Beth Quillian, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (2026)
Cory Chandler, Texas Parks and Wildlife (2027)
Jane Gustafson, Nebraska Game and Parks (2027)
Jonathan Carlucci, New Jersey DEP Fish and Wildlife (2027)
Devin Lindley, Choctaw Nation Dept of Wildlife Conservation (2028)
Natalie Andes, Georgia Department of Natural Resources (2028)
Katie Paey, New, Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife (2028)
The members of the Association for Conservation Information, Inc., acknowledge and publicly declare that in the capacity of their chosen profession, they will serve the legitimate interests of the people of the Americas in such a manner as to dedicate their services fundamentally to the goals of better mutual understanding of natural resource conservation and cooperation among the diverse individuals, groups, institutions and elements of modem society.
In the performance of this mission we pledge ourselves:
1. To conduct ourselves both privately and professionally in accord with the public good.
2. To be guided in all our activities by the generally accepted standards of truth, accuracy, fair dealing and good taste.
3. To support efforts designed to increase the proficiency of the public relations profession serving outdoor recreational and natural resource management by encouraging continuous development of the individual.
4. To adhere faithfully to the provisions of the following code of ethics.
This code, when adopted by members of the Association for Conservation Information, Inc., is designed to promote and maintain high standards of public service and conduct, so that membership in the Association for Conservation Information, Inc., will be deemed a badge of ethical conduct; that the natural resource public relations profession may be justly regarded as a profession; that the public may have increased confidence in the integrity and endeavors of each member; and that each member’s programs in all their function may best serve the public interest.
Code of Ethics:
1. Members have a duty of fair dealing, one toward the other, to their publics and to the profession.
2. Members shall conduct their private and professional lives in accord with publicly accepted standards.
3. Members have the duty of adhering to the accepted standards of accuracy, truth and good taste.
4. Members shall recognize the right to individual dignity and sense of worth as the intended heritage of all people and that all people should be persuaded rather than told.
5. Members shall recognize that the truth and all the truth about their agency’s operations is far more favorable than the usual rumor, and the public education programs concerning natural resource management are a positive responsibility of the public relations functions.
Download the Policies and Procedures PDF.
Download the Bylaws PDF.
Download the Articles of Incorporation PDF.
See full list of Board/Committees/Liaisons/Legal Counsel contacts.
View Board Meeting Minutes: June 2025 | May 2025
View the 2024 Annual Business Meeting Minutes.