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Michael "Buck" Buchanan (2015)

Buck recently retired from the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources (MDMR) after 25 years of service. Originally hired as one of the first fisheries biologists in the Mississippi Bureau of Marine Resources (later to become the MDMR), Buck's work over the years as biologist, Biological Program Coordinator and later as Director of the MDMR Finfish Bureau involved positions of responsibility, including oversight of data collection and resource monitoring programs, fisheries surveys, fisheries management plans, interagency coordination on fisheries issues, and numerous research projects. As Finfish Bureau Director and a proponent of wise management of our state's commercial and recreational marine fisheries resources, Buck's leadership ability combined with his skills in field and laboratory operations guided numerous efforts to conserve and revitalize coastal finfish resources and habitats, occasionally under contentious circumstances. His enduring support for fisheries research conducted by the Gulf Coast Research Laboratory in support of MDMR programs was always deeply appreciated and helped forge a strong and productive professional bond between GCRL and MDMR that continues today. At the present time, Buck is a member of GCRL's Age and Growth Lab in the Center for Fisheries Research and Development. During his career, Buck represented Mississippi on the Gulf States Marine Fisheries Commission's (GSMFC) Artificial Reef Subcommittee where he served as Chair. He also represented Mississippi on the GSMFR Mullet Task Force. Buck is one of the most recognized individuals at Mississippi coastal fishing tournaments and rodeos, particularly the Mississippi Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo where he has served as Associate Director and 'Biologist in Residence' for over 25 years. His knowledge of local fishes and their biology is a base of support for these uniquely coastal events. Furthermore, Buck is a deep source of information for coast anglers who appreciate his level of personal attention to their enquiry and notable catches. The Mississippi Coast angling community knows and appreciates Buck Buchanan. Buck is a guiding force in 'Casting for Conservation', a highly successful MDMR-funded program managed in collaboration with the Mississippi Coastal Conservation Association. This program is focused on educating young people about the enjoyment of recreational fishing and the benefits of coastal resource conservation. The program provides coastal youngsters, many underprivileged, the opportunity to spend time fishing with other kids and enjoying a rewarding outdoor experience during an organized program event. Mike Buchanan has earned the respect of his colleagues throughout Mississippi and is appreciated by those he has mentored and influenced as future professionals. His years of dedicated work in support of wise use and conservation of our state's saltwater fisheries resources stand as a guidepost for others to follow.