New wildlife commissioner takes seat

Cossar of Charleston replaces Stanley from District 1

Mississippi has a new member of the Commission on Mississippi Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks.

Bill F. Cossar of Charleston took the oath of office at the commission’s July meeting, replacing John C. Stanley of Corinth, whose five-year term expired.

Cossar, an Ole Miss alum, will represent District 1 (Northeast MS). The commission is composed of five persons appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Senate for a term of five years. One commissioner is appointed from each of the five congressional districts as they existed prior to 2000.

An avid sportsman, cattle rancher and retiree from Entergy, Cossar brings passion of the outdoors and practical experience to resource management and conservation. It is not his first civic position.

Cossar has served as a member of the Board of Economic Development as well as an eight-year term on the Mississippi State Personnel Board, during which he was named Chairman and Vice Chairman.

In 2003, the Mississippi Legislature awarded Cossar with House Concurrent Resolution No. 72 for his outstanding service to our state.

He joins commissioners Bryan Jones, Chairman, Yazoo City (District 2); Charles Rigdon, vice chairman, Columbus (District 3); Billy Deviney, Jackson (District 4); and, Clay Wagner, Gulfport (District 5).

Under Mississippi law, the commission shall adopt, amend and repeal such regulations, ordinances and rules as may be necessary for the operation of the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks.

The mission of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is to conserve and enhance Mississippi’s wildlife, fisheries, and parks and provide quality outdoor recreation.