The Wyoming Game & Fish Department has announced a new Game Warden for the Star Valley region. Cody Schoonover will serve as the Afton Senior Game Warden.

“Schoonover’s extensive background includes various wildlife research and technician roles in Alaska,  Idaho, California, and Illinois before he joined the Wyoming Game and Fish Department in 2016,” reports the G&F in a press release. “His prior assignments within the Department include Senior Game Warden positions in Cheyenne, Alpine, and, most recently, Cokeville. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management and a master’s degree in Environmental Toxicology.”

Wyoming Game Wardens are responsible for enforcing wildlife laws, engaging in public outreach and education, preventing wildlife damage, collecting data, and overseeing wildlife management.

Schoonover takes over for James Hobbs who has been promoted to Regional Wildlife Supervisor in Green River. Hobbs served as Afton Senior Game Warden since 2016 and was named the Wildlife Officer of the Year in 2024.

In addition, Colten Galambas was announced as the South Jackson Senior Game Warden, a position previously held by Kyle Lash who was promoted to Game Warden Coordinator in Cody.

“The Jackson Region would like to congratulate Kyle Lash and James Hobbs on their new roles and welcome Colten Galambas and Cody Schoonover,” stated the G&F. “The region looks forward to their valuable contributions to wildlife management and the community.”

Look for more details and an introduction of Schoonover in the October 8 edition of the Star Valley Independent.