12/18/2002

CO Division of Wildlife

ARAGON NAMED AREA WILDLIFE MANAGER IN SALIDA

Former Trinidad officer promoted to head Salida office.

The Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) announced that Jim Aragon has been named as the new Area Wildlife Manager for the DOW in Salida. Aragon replaces Tom Spezze, who was recently promoted to Regional Manager in Durango.

Aragon, 44, is a Salida native. He has been a District Wildlife Manager in Trinidad since 1987.

“I am really looking forward to returning to my hometown,” said Aragon. “The wildlife officers in the Salida area are top notice group, and I am honored to be a part of such a professional team.”

“Jim is a great wildlife officer,” said Southeast Regional Manager Mark Konishi. “I am proud to have him as part of our staff representing the Salida Area. Jim’s reputation is one of a consummate professional. Over the years, Jim has demonstrated the ability to perform at a high level while balancing the needs and expectations of his profession and those of his family. He is a special person.”

Aragon graduated from Salida High School in 1977. He earned a degree in range/forest management from Colorado State University. He began his career with the DOW in 1984 as a wildlife technician in the Denver area. Aragon’s wife Kelly is also from Salida. They have two daughters: Katie, 14 and Jessica, 11.

During his career in Trinidad, Aragon received several awards. In 2001, the National Wild Turkey Association named him the Colorado Wildlife Officer of the Year. As head of the Salida Area Office, Aragon will oversee DOW operations in Chaffee, Lake, and Fremont Counties as well as the southern part of Park County.