CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Natural Resources Commission will have its first meeting of the new year February 19. During the initial meeting of the year, the Division of Natural Resources wildlife staff presents recommendations for season dates and bag limits on big game in West Virginia.
However, the makeup of the current commission is well past due for some administrative maintenance.
As of today, four of the sitting commissioners’ terms have expired and a fifth position is vacant. Commissioner Greg Burnette’s term expired in June of 2024. Commissioners Tennis Cook, Jerod Harman, and Dave Milne saw their terms expire in June of last year. Former Commissioner Tom Dotson resigned his seat in 2025 leaving the vacancy. Only two commissioners, Jeff Bowers and Janet Hamric Hodge are still in their set terms.
West Virginia state code allows for any commissioner whose term has expired to continue serving until the Governor appoints a replacement or reappoints them to the position for a new term.
The law regarding the Commission was revamped during the 2021 Regular Legislative session and changed many of the longtime rules for the body. Under the present law there must be a Commissioner who lives within one of the DNR’s six districts. A seventh commissioner is the “at large” member. A commissioner’s term is now only four years and they can only serve two consecutive terms. The law also calls for the DNR Director to make the recommendation to the Governor on potential appointees.
When contacted by MetroNews, the Governor’s office issued this statement.