The development of the conservation movement in the United States and particularly the role of the state fish and wildlife agencies is one of the greatest conservation statements in world history. During the 20th century, our leaders have shown great foresight and vision in stewarding our country's fish and wildlife resources. It would be easy to say we are solid, we have the track record to prove our mettle—to accept the "do nothing alternative"—the business-as-usual approach. It is, ironically, our stellar record that today may be our biggest liability. We've done so well that we are sometimes tempted to stand pat. We must work together to see that new expectations of leadership evolve and that these new expectations become the new yardstick by which we are evaluated. Standards that will encourage the dynamic and responsive leadership that will be required in the future.
