The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP) would like to recognize Commissioner Scott Coopwood for his decade of service and leadership on the MDWFP Commission.
A native of Bolivar County and a true son of the Mississippi Delta, Scott Coopwood has been a champion for Mississippi’s natural resources. First appointed to the Commission in 2015 by Governor Phil Bryant and reappointed in 2021 by Governor Tate Reeves, Coopwood served as Chairman for two terms, guiding the Commission with integrity, vision, and unwavering dedication.
“Commissioner Coopwood’s contributions to the MDWFP and to conservation efforts statewide have not gone unnoticed,” said Lynn Posey, MDWFP Executive Director. “His leadership has left a lasting impact on Mississippi and the Commission.”
Throughout his tenure, Commissioner Coopwood achieved numerous milestones, including:
- Commissioner Coopwood was instrumental in the acquisition of the 18,000-acre Phil Bryant Wildlife Management Area (WMA), which, when combined with Mahanna WMA, now offers more than 30,000 acres of public land for outdoor recreation.
- Coopwood is a champion for the Outdoor Stewardship Trust Fund, which was created in 2022, and has since invested $92 million to enhance public access to land and water, promote conservation education, and support critical restoration projects.
- Throughout his tenure, Commissioner Coopwood worked to elevate public awareness of MDWFP’s mission and activities, fostering a deeper appreciation for Mississippi’s natural resources across the state.
- Coopwood is a powerful advocate of Mississippi State Parks and collaborated closely with state legislators to secure vital funding for park improvements, ushering in a “new era” for our parks.
- Through consistent collaboration with agency staff, Commissioner Coopwood played a key role in shaping effective and responsive policies governing the state’s wildlife and natural resources.
In addition to his service on the Commission, Coopwood is a respected publisher and business leader, known for his efforts to promote economic development in the Delta and throughout Mississippi.
The MDWFP extends great thanks to Scott for his exceptional dedication and profound impact on our agency, the commission, and Mississippi’s resources.
Beginning in July 2025, Drew St. John will join the commission, with Gary Rhoads serving as Chairman, and Billy Mounger as Vice Chairman.
The mission of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is to conserve and enhance Mississippi’s wildlife, fisheries, and parks; provide quality outdoor recreation, and engage the public in natural resource conservation.
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