Who We Are

The Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma brings together organizations and leaders to advance responsible, science-based conservation across the state.

Who We Are

A Unified Voice for Conservation

The Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma (CCO) is a statewide organization that brings together diverse groups and leaders committed to protecting Oklahoma’s natural resources.

We work to support responsible conservation efforts by connecting organizations, sharing knowledge, and helping guide policies that protect wildlife, water, and land. Our role is to create a stronger, unified voice that can make a meaningful impact across the state.

CCO represents a network of conservation organizations, community leaders, and stakeholders who share a common goal: preserving Oklahoma’s natural heritage for future generations.

Our Approach

Why a Coalition Approach Works

By bringing organizations together under one unified voice, we create stronger, more effective conservation outcomes across Oklahoma.

Stronger Together

We unite conservation organizations to work toward shared goals and amplify collective impact across the state.

Greater Impact

Collaboration allows us to combine resources, knowledge, and expertise to address complex environmental challenges more effectively.

More Influence

A unified coalition strengthens our ability to advocate for responsible policies and influence decisions that protect Oklahoma’s natural resources.

What We Do

Our Role in Conservation

We support conservation efforts through advocacy, collaboration, and education—working to protect Oklahoma’s natural resources and outdoor heritage.

Advocacy

We promote responsible conservation policies that protect wildlife, land, and water across Oklahoma.

Policy Influence

We work with policymakers and stakeholders to help shape balanced, science-based environmental decisions.

Collaboration

We bring together organizations, leaders, and communities to strengthen conservation efforts and shared initiatives.

Education & Engagement

We raise awareness and connect people with conservation issues that impact Oklahoma’s future.

Our Principles

A Nonpartisan, Science-Based Approach

We are committed to advancing conservation through balanced, practical solutions grounded in research and collaboration.

Nonpartisan Leadership

We work across perspectives to promote conservation solutions that serve the long-term interests of Oklahoma’s environment and communities.

Data-Driven Decisions

Our approach is guided by research, expert insight, and real-world data to ensure responsible and effective conservation outcomes.

Practical Solutions

We focus on realistic, actionable strategies that protect natural resources while supporting sustainable land use and community needs.

Our Background

Building a Stronger Voice for Conservation

The Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma was established to bring together organizations and leaders committed to protecting the state’s natural resources. Since its founding, the coalition has grown into a unified network that supports responsible conservation efforts across Oklahoma.

Over time, CCO has expanded its reach and strengthened its role in advocacy, collaboration, and education—helping shape conservation initiatives that protect wildlife, water, and land for future generations.

Our Affiliation

Affiliated with the National Wildlife Federation

The Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma is proud to be affiliated with the National Wildlife Federation, one of the nation’s leading conservation organizations.

This affiliation strengthens our mission by connecting us with a broader network of conservation expertise, resources, and advocacy efforts. Through this partnership, we are better equipped to support initiatives that protect wildlife, promote sustainable practices, and advance conservation efforts across Oklahoma and beyond.

Our Mission

​The CCO is dedicated to:

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The Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma is an affiliate of the National Wildlife Federation.

Our Team

Meet the Leaders Behind Oklahoma’s Conservation Efforts

The Conservation Coalition of Oklahoma is guided by passionate leaders who are dedicated to protecting the state’s wildlife, natural resources, and outdoor heritage. Our team brings together experts, advocates, and community voices who work collaboratively to promote responsible conservation policies and meaningful environmental initiatives.

Through their experience, commitment, and shared vision, our leadership continues to strengthen conservation efforts across Oklahoma while inspiring communities to value and protect the natural world.

STEVE BENDER

NATIONAL WILDLIFE FEDERATION DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION PARTNERSHIPS

​MATT WRIGHT

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

MARY JACKSON

BOARD MEMBER, REPRESENTATIVE FROM MEMBER ORGANIZATION TULSA AUDOBON SOCIETY

MICHAEL PATTON

BOARD MEMBER, REPRESENTATIVE FROM ​MEMBER ORGANIZATION LAND LEGACY

JIM GRANT

BOARD MEMBER

JOHN GRAY, BOARD MEMBER

FUNDRAISING CHAIR

JAKE MILLER

BOARD MEMBER

TOMMY TURNER

BOARD SECRETARY/TREASURER & LEGISLATIVE CHAIR

RON SUTTLES

BOARD VICE CHAIR

KIMBERLY WINTON

Ph.D., BOARD CHAIR