LANDS DIRECTOR ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT

BOISE – Department of Lands Director Winston Wiggins informed the Land Board today that he would retire from his position at the end of August. The Land Board was in an executive session when Wiggins gave his notice of retirement.

Wiggins has served as the director of the Idaho Department of Lands for over 5½ years. His retirement will culminate over 37 years of work for the department.

“This is something that has been in the works for several months and I wanted to make the transition as smooth as possible for the Land Board and the next director,” said Wiggins. He added that he is considering several opportunities in the natural resources arena, but will take his time in deciding his next step.

Governor Risch praised the director for his leadership of the department. “We were very fortunate to have Winston’s leadership for over five years as director and we appreciate his many years of service in the department. I certainly wish him well in whatever path he takes in the future,” said Risch.

Attorney General Lawrence Wasden also praised the outgoing director. “Winston Wiggins has the Idaho Department of Lands well positioned for the 21st Century," said Wasden. "Through Winston's leadership and work with the Land Board, the Idaho Department of Lands has implemented land management improvements that will provide benefits to the endowment beneficiaries for generations to come. I want to personally thank Winston for his many years of dedicated service."

State Controller Keith Johnson said he greatly appreciated Wiggin’s leadership through times of change. “He guided the department through times of significant change in land use policy over the years he served as the director. Winston is also to be commended for his leadership during the difficult downturns of the stock market. His work on behalf of endowment lands will not only benefit school kids today, but for future generations,” said Johnson.

Wiggins began his career with the Department of Lands as a forester at Priest Lake. In the 70’s he was involved in the development of the first land records system. He served as Assistant Director of the department from 1988 until 2000. Wiggins was named acting director in 2001 and became the permanent director in July of 2001.

Wiggins last day on the job will be August 31.

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