Del Frate, a wildlife biologist who is well known for responding to many of the Homer-area's pesky bear complaints, said he has enjoyed his 12-year stay with Fish and Game in Homer.

During his time in Homer, Del Frate has also helped with hunter safety classes and various game advisory panels.

"Gino's been a great asset to the Homer office and the Kenai Peninsula in general for game management," said Marnee Beverage, a Fish and Game program technician in Homer. "He's done a great job with his interactions with this community, and I'm sure he'll be sorely missed."

Beverage said the process for selecting Del Frate's replacement is under way.

The department hopes to have some one hired and on the ground in Homer by Oct. 16.