LDWF Leaders Graduate from Prestigious National Conservation Leadership Institute

Baton Rouge, Aug 07, 2026 - The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) is proud to announce that David Breithaupt, LDWF Administrator of Habitat Stewardship, and Captain Ryan Faul of the LDWF Enforcement Division have graduated from the National Conservation Leadership Institute (NCLI) as members of Cohort 19.

NCLI is one of North America's premier leadership development programs for natural resource professionals. Since its founding in 2005, the institute has prepared emerging conservation leaders to address the increasingly complex challenges facing fish and wildlife agencies, conservation organizations, and the conservation profession.

Participation in an NCLI cohort is highly competitive. Fellows are nominated by their agency leadership based on their demonstrated leadership potential, commitment to conservation, and ability to lead organizational change. Participants represent a broad cross-section of federal and state agencies, tribal organizations, non-governmental organizations and conservation-related industries from across the U.S. and Canada.

Over the course of the year-long program, fellows completed two intensive in-person residencies at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Conservation Training Center in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, a virtual residency, monthly peer collaboration sessions and an individual adaptive leadership project. Grounded in the principles of Adaptive Leadership, the curriculum equips conservation professionals with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex organizational, social, and environmental challenges while fostering collaboration, critical thinking, and organizational effectiveness.

"Developing strong leaders is essential to the future of conservation in Louisiana," said Tyler Bosworth, LDWF Secretary. "David and Ryan demonstrated an outstanding commitment to professional growth throughout this demanding program. The leadership skills, relationships and perspectives they gained through the National Conservation Leadership Institute will strengthen our department and help us continue serving the people and natural resources of Louisiana for years to come."

Breithaupt serves as Administrator of Habitat Stewardship, where he provides leadership for programs dedicated to conserving, restoring, and managing Louisiana's habitats and natural resources for future generations.

Faul serves as the Enforcement Division's Public Affairs Supervisor and Accreditation Manager, helping lead statewide public information efforts, strategic communications, and accreditation initiatives.

The knowledge, leadership skills and professional relationships gained through the National Conservation Leadership Institute will help advance LDWF’s mission to conserve, protect, and wisely manage Louisiana's fish and wildlife resources and their supporting habitats while promoting safe, responsible enjoyment of the state's natural resources.

For more information, visit the National Conservation Leadership Institute website.