Bob Abbey, of the Nevada Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is retiring after 32 years of dedicated service to the people of the Silver State. Mr. Abbey has worked for the BLM for the past twenty-seven years and he has served as director for the past eight years. Some of his past victories are well chronicled and he attributes his success to conducting business with a touch of balance.
Mr. Abbey is highly revered by his collogues for his distinctive ability to unite people with divergent or opposing viewpoints. The United States Senator Harry Reid, D-Nev., conjectured "Bob's motto that we have more in common than our differences has set the tone for the best working relationships between federal land managers and Nevadans in my memory-He has inspired his employees to solve problems, take pride in their work and serve the public with distinction. The results serve as a testament to his character, courage, and conviction." One of the many highlights of his distinushished career was "The massive rehabilitation after the 1999 and 2000 fires, that's something we can all take a great deal of pride in," explains Abbey.
Director Abbey's responsibility was to manage 48 million acres of land and found this aspect of his duties challenging. He states "Anytime you manage 48 million acres, there's going to some stresses involved." Employing the fine art of creating a sense of balance becomes a major undertaking. Mr. Abbey's work ethic and management style truly exemplified the benefits of mastering and implementing these concepts.
The Nevada Bureau of Land Management will miss the presence and leadership of Mr. Abbey, but the region will surely benefit from his expertise and valued insight.
Rest and relaxation are in store for the former director in the near future. He does not have any absolute plans for retirement aside from spending time with his family. The Reno Builders' Exchange salutes a fine career and wishes Mr. Abbey much happiness.