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Backcountry Hunters & Anglers Taps Ryan “Cal” Callaghan as President and CEO Starting Jan. 1, 2026

The board cites a long record in public-lands advocacy alongside deep grassroots ties to drive membership growth.

Overview

  • The appointment was announced Oct. 31, 2025, with Callaghan set to assume the role on Jan. 1, 2026.
  • He succeeds Patrick Berry, who left in July after 18 months, following a long tenure by former leader Land Tawney.
  • Callaghan serves as MeatEater’s Director of Conservation and plans to retain his MeatEater role and First Lite partnership.
  • A transition through year-end will involve staff and state chapters to finalize 2026 priorities centered on membership growth, stronger partnerships, and a nonpartisan conservation stance.
  • Board chair Chris Jenkins called the hire a “best-case scenario,” highlighting Callaghan’s credibility with grassroots members and national partners.