Romey Swanson is a dedicated conservation leader, wildlife biologist, and advocate for private land stewardship. With over 15 years of experience in conservation science, wildlife management, and policy, he has built a career focused on protecting Texas’ natural landscapes, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and promoting sustainable hunting and land-use practices. As Executive Director of the Devils River Conservancy, he leads efforts to safeguard one of Texas’ last wild rivers through science-based conservation, policy advocacy, and private land partnerships. His leadership has strengthened relationships between landowners, agencies, and policymakers, ensuring that conservation solutions align with both private land rights and ecological priorities. His ability to navigate complex conservation challenges while maintaining trust among diverse stakeholders has positioned him as a leading voice in Texas land and water policy.
Beyond his work with the Devils River Conservancy, Romey serves as a wildlife biologist for Hershey Ranch, a Lone Star Land Steward Award-winning property recognized for its outstanding land and wildlife conservation. His expertise in habitat restoration, native species management, and conservation easements has helped shape the ranch’s approach to long-term sustainability. His work highlights the critical role that private landowners play in Texas’ conservation landscape, demonstrating how working lands can be both ecologically and economically viable. He also led a multi-year research effort on owls of the high elevations of far West Texas mountains, a project that resulted in the discovery of the first documented breeding occurrence of the northern saw-whet owl in Texas. This work contributed to a greater understanding of montane bird populations in the state and their ecological significance.
A lifelong advocate for conservation-based hunting, Romey initiated the Women in Conservation Hunt in partnership with the Texas Wildlife Association’s Adult Learn to Hunt Program. This initiative provides a safe and welcoming opportunity for women to be introduced to hunting, game management, butchery, and additional hunting skills. His passion for this program led him to help produce First Hunt, a documentary capturing the experiences of participants and highlighting the importance of inclusivity in the hunting and conservation community. Romey also served as a lead scientific consultant for Deep in the Heart: A Texas Wildlife Story, an award-winning documentary that showcases Texas’ diverse ecosystems and the importance of conservation.
Prior to leading the Devils River Conservancy, Romey served as Director of Conservation Strategy for Audubon Texas, where he developed large-scale conservation initiatives focused on habitat protection, migratory corridors, and policy engagement. Before that, he worked with Hill Country Conservancy and Plateau Land & Wildlife, providing conservation planning and wildlife management guidance to private landowners, agencies, and conservation organizations. His expertise has made him a sought-after voice in Texas’ conservation community, contributing to projects with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, the U.S. National Park Service, and private landowners.
He currently serves as President of the Texas Ornithological Society and President-Elect of the Texas Herpetological Society. He is a member of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Wildlife Diversity Advisory Committee and the Mountain Lion Stakeholder Working Group, as well as a gubernatorial appointee to the Texas Farm and Ranch Lands Conservation Council. As a writer and communicator, he contributes to Texas Parks & Wildlife Magazine and is a wildlife photographer specializing in reptiles and amphibians. His ability to blend science, policy, and storytelling helps bridge the gap between conservation research and public engagement.
From advocating for river conservation to mentoring new hunters, Romey Swanson remains at the forefront of Texas conservation efforts. His work is driven by a deep respect for the land, a commitment to private land stewardship, and a belief in the power of collaboration. Whether paddling the Devils River, surveying wildlife on Texas’ working lands, or helping new hunters forge their connection to the outdoors, he is shaping the future of Texas conservation—ensuring that its wild places remain protected for generations to come.