Bob Oakleaf and his wife Barbara have lived in Lander since 1977; raising four sons with numerous outings in Sinks Canyon contributing to the family’s, deep appreciation of Wyoming and nature.

Bob has worked since 1973 as a nongame and sensitive species program supervisor; initiating, developing; and supervising these programs in two states (Nevada 1973 – 1977, Wyoming 1977 -2014). An important portion of these programs were devoted to recovery of threatened and endangered species such as bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and black-footed ferrets. Recovery efforts were successfully focused on increasing populations while minimizing conflicts with ongoing land uses.

Bob became especially interested in peregrine falcons early in his career, studying nesting pairs for nearly 50 years. Like thousands of wildlife professionals, he has been impressed at the ability of peregrines and many wildlife species to successfully inhabit multiple-use lands with conflicting human disturbance. Yet, like most wildlife enthusiasts he continues to encourage managers to provide uncompromised protection of existing habitat specifically purchased and preserved for the benefit of wildlife.