Gov. David Ige this week named Samuel M. Gon III to the Board of Land and Natural Resources.

His appointment, which is subject to state Senate confirmation, follows the departure of Ulalia Woodside.

Gon, says the administration is a senior scientist and cultural advisor at the Hawaii Nature Conservancy. 

Gon is also an affiliate faculty member at the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

“Sam has extensive knowledge of the Hawaiian culture and history, as well as research, teaching and administrative experience that will serve the board well as it works to manage, protect, conserve and manage our state’s unique resources. Sam will be a valuable member of the team,” Ige said in a press release.

“After two stimulating and satisfying terms on the Land Board, I learned so much, and I very much look forward to serving again in support of the protection and preservation of Hawai‘i’s unique and precious natural and cultural resources,” Gon said.