Jonathan Brunjes Appointed Administrator of Nevada State Parks

DCNR Announces Retirement of Nevada State Parks Administrator Bob Mergell and Appointment of Jonathan Brunjes as Administrator

Carson City, Nev. – The Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources announced today that Nevada State Parks Administrator Bob Mergell will retire on June 12, 2026, after more than 30 years with the division.

Mergell began his career with Nevada State Parks as a seasonal employee at what was then known as Floyd Lamb State Park in Las Vegas. During the next three decades, he rose through the ranks of the division, ultimately serving as Administrator of Nevada State Parks for the past eight years.

From new park development to major facility upgrades, Mergell’s career has been defined by a commitment to improving Nevada’s state parks. His leadership helped advance major infrastructure and facility improvements, address longstanding maintenance needs, modernize park operations through the implementation of a reservation system, strengthen park public safety programs, and support the creation of new state parks.

“I’m grateful for the opportunities Nevada State Parks has provided me over the last 30 years,” said Mergell. “From my start as a seasonal employee to serving as Administrator, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside employees across the state whose commitment to our parks is reflected in everything they do. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together, and I know Nevada State Parks is in great hands with Administrator Brunjes leading the division.”

“Bob’s career is a remarkable example of dedication and leadership,” said DCNR Director Vinson Guthreau. “Rising through the ranks from a seasonal employee to Administrator, Bob is a true success story. Over the course of three decades with Nevada State Parks, he helped strengthen our parks, improve facilities and visitor services, and ensure these special places remain available for the enjoyment of our future generations. We are grateful for his many contributions and wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.”

Brunjes Appointed Administrator

Jonathan Brunjes has been appointed to succeed Mergell as Administrator of Nevada State Parks. Having served as Nevada State Parks’ Deputy Administrator for the past five years, Brunjes brings extensive knowledge of the division and its operations to the role.

Since joining Nevada State Parks in 2002, he has overseen park operations and maintenance, public safety initiatives, park conservation projects, visitor and community engagement, and strategic planning efforts across the state park system.

Brunjes holds a bachelor’s degree in outdoor recreation in parks and tourism and a master’s degree in public administration from Southern Utah University.

“Jonathan Brunjes has demonstrated a strong commitment to Nevada’s state parks and the outdoor recreation opportunities they provide for residents and visitors alike,” said Governor Joe Lombardo. “His experience, leadership, and dedication to public lands make him well prepared to lead Nevada State Parks into the future. I congratulate Jonathan on his appointment and look forward to the continued success of the division under his leadership.”

“Jonathan’s steady leadership, collaborative approach, and commitment to Nevada State Parks make him exceptionally well suited to lead the division,” said Guthreau. “His understanding of the agency, its mission, and the challenges and opportunities ahead will help ensure continued success for Nevada’s state parks.”

The Nevada Division of State Parks manages and maintains 27 parks, historic sites, and recreation areas across the state, preserving Nevada’s natural, cultural, and historic resources while providing high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

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The Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ mission is to protect, manage, and enhance Nevada’s natural, cultural, and recreational resources. Established in 1957, the Department includes 11 divisions and programs (Environmental Protection, Forestry, Outdoor Recreation, State Parks, State Lands, Water Resources, Historic Preservation, Conservation Districts, Natural Heritage, Sagebrush Ecosystem, and Conserve Nevada) and 12 boards and commissions.