After five years as the Executive Director of the Conservation Federation of Missouri (CFM), the state's largest and most active citizen conservation organization, Brandon Butler is stepping down to pursue another opportunity.  

Since Butler joined the Conservation Federation on March 1, 2014, CFM has experienced a surge of statewide awareness and growth. Much of which is the result of a greatly expanded event series, strong focus on communications, and effective efforts in the Missouri Legislature.

"Our team of volunteers, members, agency partners and staff have worked so hard over the last five years to raise awareness of CFM and the critical mission the organization serves to protect Missouri's unique and highly successful model of conservation management. I am incredibly humbled and thankful for the opportunity I was given to lead, and I will remain proud of the collaborative results we achieved for the rest of my life," Butler said. 

Some of the highlights of CFM's growth during Butler's tenure include: establishing the Explore the Outdoors Regional Event Series, Conservation Day at the Capitol, the CFM Media Event, the CFM Affiliate Summit, rebranding the organization, expanding and enhancing the Conservation Federation Magazine, creating the Conservation Federation Podcast, establishing a strong digital media presence, creating the David Risberg Memorial Endowment and effectiveness in the legislature protecting Missouri's wildlife and natural resources. 

"There is so much to look back on and so many people to thank, none more so than my staff. I truly believe the highlight of my time at CFM was the work we did to renew the Parks, Soils and Water Sales Tax. Never before had I experiences such collaboration and a willingness by all parties to set aside small, individual differences to focus on the big picture while making life better for all citizens. To pass that vote with 80.1 percent of Missourians agreeing on the importance of incredible parks, healthy soil and clean water was monumental. And it shows that as a citizenry we are not as divided as it may seem," said Butler.  

Butler's last day at CFM will be January 31, 2019. In early February, he will be joining Roeslein Alternative Energy as Director of Communications. He will remain an active life member of CFM and strong advocate for the organization. 

"Brandon Butler brought passion to Missouri's conservation heritage. His writings and speeches provided a vision for conservationists throughout Missouri. We are grateful for his helping expand the Conservation Federation of Missouri's foot print by engaging CFM affiliates and our business partners. We wish him the best in his new position," said CFM President Gary Van De Velde.