BOISE, Idaho – Chris Parish, who leads The Peregrine Fund’s condor recovery project in Arizona, has been named Natural Resource Professional of the Year by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission.

Parish received the award at the commission’s annual banquet on January 12. The department annually honors individuals and organizations for their contributions to Arizona’s wildlife resources.

“Chris is one of those unique individuals who can pull diverse groups of people together through education and a sincere dedication to building trust and lasting relationships,” Commission Chairman Norm Freeman said. “Because of Chris and his unique blend of talents, Arizona’s California Condor recovery project is one of the most successful endangered species reintroductions I have ever witnessed. I am honored to have him as a colleague and friend.”

Parish grew up near the historical range of the remnant California Condor population in California. After earning a biology degree from Northern Arizona University, he worked for the Arizona Game and Fish Department on the Black Footed Ferret Reintroduction Program, then became the agency’s Condor Project Coordinator in 1997.

Since 2000, Parish has directed condor field operations for The Peregrine Fund, which began releasing condors in Arizona in 1996. Condors are bred, hatched, and raised at the organization’s breeding facility at the World Center for Birds of Prey in Boise, Idaho, before being transferred to the release site at Vermilion Cliffs near the Grand Canyon.

“Chris is a valuable member of our condor recovery team,” said J. Peter Jenny, president of The Peregrine Fund. “His tremendous energy and commitment are incredible assets in our ongoing effort to save the iconic California Condor from extinction.”  

Previously, The Peregrine Fund was honored by the Arizona Game and Fish Commission with the Award of Excellence in 2006.

For more information, contact:

Erin Katzner
Director of Global Engagement
Main Phone:     208-362-3716
Direct Phone:     208-362-8277