Governor Mike Dunleavy has appointed Randy Bates as commissioner-designee for the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. Bates takes over DEC starting Monday, May 19, and replaces Christina Carpenter who has served as the Acting Commissioner since January.
Bates returns to DEC after a long and accomplished career in state service. He previously served as director of the Division of Water in DEC, and prior to that was director of the Division of Habitat at the Alaska Department of Fish & Game.
Governor Dunleavy said, “Randy is uniquely suited to assume the role of commissioner-designee for DEC and continue to push my Administration’s agenda to develop our plentiful resources responsibly and to minimize the impacts from all of our actions on the environment.”
“It is an honor to be named commissioner, and I look forward to working for Governor Dunleavy and with the other members of his cabinet,” said Randy Bates. “My primary goal as commissioner will be to continue the department’s mission of balancing the need for responsible development and preserving Alaska’s pristine lands and waters and wildlife.”
Carpenter has accepted a new position outside of state government and will remain at the department as deputy commissioner through May 30 to assist with the transition. Governor Dunleavy also thanks Carpenter for her dedication and years of service to the people of Alaska.
