Art Nelson joined the department as an Information Officer for the Division of Commercial Fisheries in 2007 and was hired as the Executive Director for the Board of Fisheries in August 2022. Prior to working for ADF&G, Art worked on western Alaska fishery issues in a variety of capacities for over 20 years and served as an appointed member on the Board of Fisheries from 2003 to 2007. Art lives in Anchorage with his wife, Joni. They have three adult sons, a black lab, a Belgian Malinois, and a dachshund. While his winter months will be filled with meetings, he spends his spare time in the summer fishing and exploring in Prince William Sound.

Kari Winkel
Executive Director, Board of Game

Kari Winkel began her career with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game in 2018 as the Executive Secretary in the Commissioner's Office. She advanced to the role of Special Projects Assistant in 2019, supporting department leadership and coordinating a variety of high-priority initiatives. In March 2026, she was appointed Executive Director of the Board of Game.

Before joining the department, Kari held positions with the Alaska Department of Law and the Alaska Court System. Originally from Renton, Washington, she has been a resident of Juneau since 2012. Outside the office, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, Casey, and their two pit bulls, taking advantage of Juneau's trails and beaches whenever the weather allows.