Individual of the Month: Cassy Behnke
Naturalist - South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks
This month, Codington Connects is excited to feature Cassy Behnke as our Individual of the Month. Cassy is a Naturalist with South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks. She plays an important role in helping to inspire the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
Cassy calls her role "the coolest job in the world." Whether she's teaching a child to cast their first fishing line, helping a teen on their first hunt, identifying bird beaks, or encouraging someone to simply pause and observe nature, Cassy brings an abundance of energy and purpose to every moment. "Every day is different," she says, "and every moment has the power to spark lifelong curiosity and appreciation for the natural world."
Through her involvement with Codington Connects, Cassy brings an important skill to the table: the ability to connect families to the outdoors in ways that are both fun and meaningful. She creates opportunities that go beyond the outdoors - they support mental wellness, strengthen family bonds, and foster a lifelong appreciation for the world around us.
Her biggest inspiration? Her husband Adam and their daughters, Eden and Ivy. "They're my greatest adventure partners," she shares. "They remind me daily why the work that I'm doing is so important. I hope to raise my girls with a deep love and respsect for the outdoors - and to pass that along to others."
Outside of work, Cassy is just as active. In the winter, they can be found at an SDSU wrestling match or ice fishing. During the colder months, they're either at their cabin or coaching high school trapshooting - another way Cassy helps build confidence and connection in young people.
And if she could have any superpower? "The ability to clean and pack for a camping or hunting trip with just a snap of my fingers," she says. "Because outdoor adventures are magical... but getting ready for them? Not so much!"
Cassy, with your passion and knowledge, we appreciate the lasting impact that you are making in our community!