Governor Otter Appoints Blanco, Attebury to Idaho Fish and Game Commission

Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter appointed Daniel Blanco of Moscow and Derick Attebury of Idaho Falls to the seven-member Idaho Fish and Game Commission on Thursday, Sept. 10. Blanco will represent Fish and Game's Clearwater Region and replaces Fred Trevey, and Attebury replaces Kenny Anderson of Rigby for the Upper Snake Region's commissioner. Trevey's and Anderson's terms expired June 30. Blanco and Attebury will serve four-year terms if their appointments are confirmed by the Idaho Senate when the Legislature reconvenes in January. "It's always gratifying when engaged and concerned citizens step up to take on the responsibilities of managing our precious public resources. Few duties are more important to Idahoans, and few positions in State government are more demanding," Governor Otter said. "Derick and Daniel are committed to helping advance Fish and Game's mission of preserving, protecting, perpetuating and managing Idaho's wildlife for future generations of sportsmen." Daniel Blanco retired as director of career services at the University of Idaho. He has a master's degree in public administration emphasizing environmental management from the University of South Dakota. Since 2005, Blanco has been employed in the outdoor-adventure industry in sales and marketing. He is an active member of the National Rifle Association Henry's Fork Foundation, Idaho For Wildlife Foundation, The Gamebird Foundation, and an Idaho Hunter Education instructor. He has also served on various boards including U.S. Senator Mike Crapo's Clearwater Elk Initiative, Concerned Sportsmen of Idaho and Moscow Lions Club. "I have a passion for the issues, share values with those who fish, hunt, and trap, and I desire to unselfishly serve," Blanco said. Attebury, 41, is an irrigation company operations manager and an avid big-game hunter who also enjoys fishing. Attebury is a member of the National Rifle Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and has recently worked with Pheasants Forever on habitat projects. Attebury studied environmental sciences at Idaho State University and University of Idaho, but said he did not earn a degree from either university. Attebury said he is looking forward to working with Fish and Game and the people in the Upper Snake Region. "My passion in life is hunting and fishing," Attebury said, "and I love being outdoors."