Douglas J. Megargle Memorial Scholarship
(1966-2019)
This scholarship is in memory of Douglas (Doug) J. Megargle who was killed in an automobile accident on May 14, 2019, while on duty. Doug was a man of nature, growing up in upstate New York where he spent time hunting, fishing, and trapping, and forging friendships that lasted throughout his life. He attended college in Cobleskill, NY before setting his sights west and transferring to Colorado State University. After graduating with his Bachelor's Degree, Doug ventured to Idaho where he worked several seasons for the Idaho Department of Fish and Game gaining skills and making connections. His tenacity, passion and dedication were evident even then, eventually leading him to complete a Master's Degree in Fish and Wildlife Management from Montana State University in 1997. Doug then returned to Idaho where he spent a season in the Upper Snake region fisheries program before being hired as a Fisheries Research Biologist in 1998 working on wild trout entrainment studies in southern Idaho. He moved to the Regional Fisheries Biologist position in Jerome in 2000, and in 2001 Doug was chosen to be the Magic Valley Regional Fisheries Manager, a position he held until his death. His tenure as fisheries manager left a legacy of outreach and communication with the public, commitment to youth fishing and education, and development of numerous community fishing ponds across the region. Doug was also an enthusiastic member of the American Fisheries Society, attending nearly every chapter meeting and being a member from 1993 until the time of his death. One of his greatest passions was mentoring young professionals as they began their fisheries career, steering them as often as possible toward graduate school and AFS membership and involvement. When not at work Doug loved fishing, mountain biking, camping, hiking, hunting, and spending time with his wife Christine and his daughters Julia and Sophia whom he adored. Traveling and playing games with the girls were always highlights in his life. Doug loved to read and was always seeking new knowledge and he loved sharing the things he learned with his family. There was nothing Doug couldn't talk about, usually with a witty twist, and perhaps followed by a good practical joke.
The Douglas J. Megargle Memeroial Scholarship was created by generous donations from the Megargle family and the Idaho Chapter.
