Rob Gump to lead the Lincoln Ranger District

LINCOLN, Mont. April 21, 2021 - Rob Gump has been selected as the new district ranger for the Lincoln Ranger District, the western most district on the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest.  Gump will begin the new position in mid-June. 

"Rob's background working on fire-dependent ecosystems as a silviculturist-ecologist, managing recreation, Wilderness and trails programs, and his leadership and collaborative-mindset made him a great fit for the position," said Forest Supervisor Bill Avey.  "We are grateful for the leadership of current acting ranger, Tory Kendrick, who is helping provide guidance to the district during this time of transition." 

Gump started his Forest Service career in eastern Oregon as a firefighter before transitioning into forestry, and eventually becoming the forest silviculturist on the Deerlodge National Forest in Montana.  Gump served 12 years as district staff officer for the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest where he helped manage recreation, Wilderness and trails for Hells Canyon National Recreation Area and Eagle Cap Wilderness.

With strong ties to Montana, Gump and his family moved back in 2008 where he transitioned into the role of forest silviculturist-ecologist on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Under a new Forest Plan that emphasized restoration, Gump was able develop a robust program in active management that reflected the needs that come from a dynamic, fire-dependent forest ecosystem.  In 2016, Gump worked to improve planning efficiencies and increase public engagement through collaboration, and oversaw planning, timber, silviculture, and wildlife programs as the forest staff officer on the Bitterroot National Forest.

Gump's leadership led to acting district ranger roles in Montana and Idaho and as deputy forest supervisor on the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest in northern Arizona. Currently, Gump serves as a deputy forest supervisor for the National Forests in Florida, a forest known for its robust timber, fire, and recreation programs.

Gump is excited to return to Montana and join the Lincoln Ranger District in serving both the community and the Forest as district ranger. He looks forward to bringing his experiences in working with people, furthering partnerships, and enhancing the stewardship and future of our public lands.