National Wildlife Federation CEO announces retirement

National Wildlife Federation (NWF) President and CEO Larry Schweiger plans to retire in May, the conservation group announced Wednesday.

Schweiger, who started at the NWF in 1981 and became CEO in 2004, revealed the news to staff over a conference call Tuesday. The longtime conservation leader plans to tackle climate change solutions in a new book and spend more time with his family.

{mosads}Schweiger was a pioneer of watershed restoration and promoter of ecological research during his time as president and CEO of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy prior to taking the NWF post.

Trout Unlimited CEO Chris Wood applauded Schwiger for his dedication to the conservation community on news of his retirement.

“Larry has been instrumental in giving voice to conservation-minded hunters and anglers in decisions regarding energy development, land protection, and habitat restoration,” Wood said in a statement.

“Most importantly, we appreciate his commitment to engaging the next generation of outdoor stewards who will help sustain our outdoor legacy.”