Brett Dorak hired as Malta-area wildlife biologist

From FWP

Brett Dorak was recently appointed as the Malta-area biologist for Region 6 of Montana of Fish, Wildlife and Parks. He will be based out of Malta and replaces Scott Thompson, who became the Region 6 Wildlife Manager in early 2016.

Dorak, 31, is originally from Wisconsin and holds a bachelor's degree in wildlife ecology from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and a master's degree in natural resources and environmental sciences from the University of Illinois-Champaign-Urbana. Dorak did his masters work leading a collaborative effort to understand the winter ecology of Canada geese in the Greater Chicago Metropolitan Area with the goal to determine management strategies for the species.

From 2012-2014, Dorak worked with Ducks Unlimited as a conservation specialist-Farm Bill biologist. He was involved with working with multiple agencies, including FWP, to develop conservation easements for Farm Bill, state, and USFWS programs. He also was involved with writing grants, inventorying plant species, and presenting educational programs throughout the state.

"While working for Ducks Unlimited, I had the good fortune of covering the Hi-Line," Dorak said. "That afforded me the opportunity to work with diverse groups of landowners to not only conserve critical wildlife habitat, but keep sustainable agricultural practices on the landscape."

Dorak is familiar with Region 6, as he has worked various seasonal positions from 2010-2012 with FWP as a wildlife technician, Fort Peck reservoir spawn technician, and hunting access (block management) technician.

"The Hi-line and Region 6 has always been a special place to me, and I could not be more excited to be back," Dorak said.

As the Malta-area biologist, Dorak assumed the duty as the upland game bird specialist for the region. In addition, Dorak plans to continue to work actively on access and habitat projects and establish further positive communication between hunters, landowners, other agencies and FWP. 

"The Malta-area is home to a wide variety of habitat types and diverse wildlife populations, which I feel shows the good relationship between area landowners and Region 6 staff," Dorak said. "I look forward to continue the positive working relationships that FWP personnel have built in recent years, and do everything I can to expand our work on habitat, access, and hunting opportunity."

Dorak is an avid hunter and fishermen. He and his wife, Sheena, have one daughter, Una, and said they are excited to be making their home in Malta.

To get in touch with Dorak, people can contact him at 406-654-2272.