Three members of the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners have been confirmed for additional terms, ensuring continuity in the state’s wildlife management leadership. The commissioners will help shape hunting regulations, wildlife conservation policies, and opportunities for Pennsylvania hunters over the next four years.
The Pennsylvania Game Commission (PGC) announced on October 30, 2026, that three members of its Board of Game Commissioners have received Pennsylvania Senate confirmation for new terms extending through 2030. Governor Josh Shapiro nominated the commissioners, who represent different regions of the Commonwealth.
The confirmed members are Dr. Michael Mitrick of York County, Haley Sankey of Blair County, and Allen DiMarco of Lycoming County. All three are returning commissioners rather than new appointments.
Three Commissioners Returning to the Board
Dr. Michael Mitrick – District 6
Mitrick was confirmed on October 7, 2026, for his third term. His district includes Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry, Snyder, and York counties. He has emphasized protecting wildlife habitat and preserving Pennsylvania’s hunting traditions for future generations.
Haley Sankey – District 4
Sankey was confirmed for her second term on May 6, 2026, and currently serves as president of the Board of Game Commissioners. Her district covers Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fulton, Huntingdon, and Somerset counties.
Allen DiMarco – District 5
Also confirmed for a second term on May 6, DiMarco currently serves as the board’s vice president. His district includes Bradford, Columbia, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Sullivan, Tioga, and Union counties. DiMarco has expressed support for responsible wildlife management and expanding hunting opportunities.
Why These Appointments Matter to Hunters
The nine-member Board of Game Commissioners plays a central role in determining Pennsylvania’s hunting and wildlife management policies. Commissioners establish hunting seasons, bag limits, and other regulations while overseeing broader conservation priorities.
Their decisions affect deer, bear, turkey, small game, and other wildlife species throughout Pennsylvania. The board also helps guide habitat conservation, wildlife population management, and hunting access programs.
Each commissioner represents one of nine geographic districts but is responsible for wildlife management decisions affecting the entire state. Commissioners serve four-year terms and may be reappointed twice, allowing a maximum of three terms.
The confirmations provide continuity in the board’s leadership as Pennsylvania addresses ongoing issues such as deer population management, chronic wasting disease, habitat conservation, and maintaining hunting opportunities.
Hunters Can Participate in Wildlife Management Decisions
The Board of Game Commissioners generally meets four times annually, with regular meetings typically scheduled in January, April, June, and September. Additional meetings may be held when necessary.
Pennsylvania hunters can follow proposed regulations, attend public meetings, and provide comments on issues affecting hunting and conservation. The board can be contacted directly at pgcboard@pa.gov.
The appointments themselves do not change any current hunting seasons or regulations. However, the returning commissioners will have a voice in future decisions that could affect Pennsylvania hunters through 2030.
Stay Updated on Pennsylvania Hunting Regulations With Hunterizer
As Pennsylvania’s wildlife regulations evolve, Hunterizer helps hunters stay informed about what they can legally hunt at any location and date. The Hunterizer app provides hunting season dates, wildlife management unit maps, legal hunting methods, bag limits, license requirements, and important regulations for 42 Pennsylvania game and furbearer species. Whether planning a deer hunt, pursuing fall turkeys, or exploring new hunting areas, Hunterizer makes it easier to understand the rules and prepare for your next hunt.
