For Immediate Release                                                                                Jan. 12, 2007

NEW DIRECTOR BEGINS AT DNR

DES MOINES * Richard Leopold, a recognized leader in natural resources and agriculture issues in Iowa, assumes the position of Iowa Department of Natural Resources director today.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources, with an annual budget of $150 million and approximately 1,000 employees, is the government agency that leads Iowans in caring for their natural resources. It is responsible for maintaining state parks and forests, protecting the environment, and managing energy, fish, wildlife, and land and water resources in Iowa.

"I can't think of a more exciting time to be leading the DNR than right now," said Leopold. "Iowa is poised to become the world-leader in bio-renewable fuel production and there is a strong interest by citizens to seek long-term, sustainable funding for natural resources."

Leopold brings an extensive and diverse background to the position having worked in natural resources at the county, state and federal levels and in a wide range of capacities. In his previous position as director of the Iowa Environmental Council, he led a coalition of more than 70 businesses and 80,000 households.

"We face some challenges ahead. Everybody wants clean water and air, but there are always going to be different viewpoints on the best ways to achieve those goals. I very much look forward to using my unique experience to build the coalitions and support needed that will result in a cleaner environment for our citizens today and in the future," Leopold said.

During his time as director of the Iowa Environmental Council, Leopold has also worked closely with sportsman groups represented by The Conservation Alliance on common issues.

"There is no shortage of energy or desire to improve our natural resources in Iowa, but there is so much more that can be accomplished by working together. My primary goal will be harnessing the energy and interest of Iowans toward building a better future for our citizens," said Leopold.

Leopold was appointed by Gov. Chet Culver to succeed Jeff Vonk who served as director since March of 2001. Vonk has been named secretary of the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department.

Leopold has held a variety of biologist, naturalist, and administrative positions within the U.S. Forest Service, the National Park Service, and the Minnesota and Iowa Department of Natural Resources. From 1999-2002, Leopold served as the coordinator for IOWATER, Iowa's statewide volunteer water-quality monitoring program. He holds degrees in biology from Minnesota State University and Central Lakes College (Brainerd, Minnesota) and has just finished his master's degree in natural resources ecology and management from Iowa State University. Richard is active in many conservation organizations, is the past chairperson of the Iowa Conservation Education Council and is a past recipient of the Izaak Walton League of America's "National Honor Roll Award."

For more information, contact Kevin Baskins at 515-281-8395.

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Kevin Baskins, Communications Bureau Chief
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
(515)  281-8395
E-mail: [log in to unmask]