Snyder appoints Creagh as new state DNR director

Gov. Rick Snyder’s appointment of state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Director Rodney Stokes as the administration’s special adviser for city placemaking has prompted the shuffling of positions at the DNR and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).

Stokes will work with cities to help them become more vibrant and inviting by enhancing their existing resources.

“Michigan’s cities are brimming with unique natural and man-made assets that can be cultivated in ways which attract families and visitors, retain talented workers, encourage investment, and enhance our overall quality of life,” Snyder said. “Rodney has the talent and experience to make that happen. His expertise in the areas of natural resources, outdoor recreation, policy development and civic engagement make him well suited to partner with cities in these efforts. A strong Michigan needs strong cities. Rodney’s work will be key to that success and we’re fortunate to have a person of his caliber at the forefront of this critical initiative.”

“I am excited to take a lead role in fostering more vibrant urban communities,” Stokes said. “I firmly believe that great states have great cities, just as great states nurture and protect their natural resources. This appointment affords me one more opportunity to make Michigan a more dynamic, inviting place to be.”

Following Stokes’ appointment to his new position, Snyder appointed MDARD Director Keith Creagh as the new DNR director.

“Keith is a natural choice to become our next DNR director,” Snyder said. “He has a strong understanding of Michigan’s conservation, economic and environmental needs, vast experience and ability to bring people together, and a love of our state’s great outdoors that will make for a seamless transition.

“I am honored to serve as director of the Department of Natural Resources and to work with such a dedicated group of professionals,” Creagh said. “I will strive to uphold the department’s great standard of excellence and build upon its past successes. As a lifelong outdoor enthusiast, I understand the importance of the state’s natural resources to Michigan citizens. Hunting, fishing, camping, hiking and other outdoor pursuits are not just hobbies in this state. They are a defining part of who we are as Michiganders.”

The state Department of Environmental Quality’s (DEQ) Policy and Legislative Affairs Director Jamie Clover Adams was appointed as the new MDARD director.

“Michigan’s food and agriculture industry is one of the most important to our state’s economy, and Jamie has the experience, knowledge and skills to provide the necessary leadership to assure Michigan food and agriculture continues to play a prominent role in our state’s economic recovery,” Snyder said. “She will be an excellent director for MDARD.”

“I am honored to serve the people of Michigan and am anxious to get to work to meet Gov. Snyder’s goals for agriculture,” Clover Adams said. “We will strive to double our exports, work to significantly increase farm verifications and help grow the value chain from farm to fork.”

All appointments become effective Monday, July 9.