Here’s the release from Partners for Colorado:
John Stulp, who has been the Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture since 2006, has been named special policy adviser on water to newly elected Gov. John Hickenlooper.
Former Congressman John Salazar of Manassa has been named the new agricultural commissioner by Hickenlooper.
In his new position, Stulp, a Prowers County farmer and rancher, will be chairman of the Interbasin Compact Committee and will continue to work with the state’s agricultural community, developing policies and solutions on how water is managed statewide.
The Interbasin Compact Committee was established by the Colorado Water for the 21st Century Act to bring representatives of the state’s river basins together to address statewide water issues. The 27-member committee encourages dialogue on water, broadens the range of those actively participating in the state’s water decisions and creates a locally driven process where the decision-making power rests with those living in the state’s river basins.
“John Stulp’s service to Colorado’s ranchers, farmers and universities is remarkable,” Hickenlooper said in a news release. “And a cornerstone of that service is his deep understanding of our water resources and the need to manage them carefully and effectively. Most importantly, John understands an age-old truth in the West: whiskey is for drinking and water is for fighting. John’s task will be to replace the fighting with collaboration.”
Salazar is a sixth generation southern Colorado farmer and rancher and was a three-time Congressman representing the state’s third district. Prior to that, he served two years in the Colorado House. While in Congress, he served on the House Agriculture Committee and played a key role in passing the 2008 Farm Bill.
“I look forward to working with Gov.-elect Hickenlooper and serving the people of Colorado as the Commissioner of Agriculture for the next four years. I am excited about the great possibilities of expanding our energy opportunities along with marketing value-added products and promoting the second-largest economy in Colorado,” Salazar said in a news release.
Hickenlooper takes office next week.
From email from Environment Colorado (Pam Kiely):
Environment Colorado applauds selection of Mike King to direct Department of Natural Resources
The following statement is by Environment Colorado Program Director Pam Kiely regarding the selection of Mike King to direct the Department of Natural Resources
“Mike King is an exceptional choice to continue to lead Colorado’s Department of Natural Resources. With the management of our state’s natural resources one of the most vital roles, it is a smart decision to keep putting Mike’s talent and experience to good use for Colorado.
“Mike is a proven leader, with a track record of success tackling some of the state’s toughest issues over his lengthy tenure at DNR. From helping manage a landmark process to balance strong protection of our land, water, wildlife and public health with traditional resource extraction, to overseeing the creation of critical uranium regulations to protect groundwater from toxic pollution, Mike has made profound progress for our environment while earning the respect and trust of stakeholders across the board.
“Serving first as Deputy Director and then Executive Director in not one, but two previous administrations, Mike has proven to have what it takes to bring people together from across the state and across constituency groups to craft smart solutions for Colorado.
“Environment Colorado applauds Governor-elect Hickenlooper for another strong choice. We look forward to continuing our work with Director King to protect and enhance Colorado’s natural environment, and help safeguard Colorado’s future.”
More coverage from Patrick Malone writing for The Pueblo Chieftain. From the article:
Gov.-elect John Hickenlooper on Wednesday named San Luis Valley native and former Rep. John Salazar Colorado’s next commissioner of agriculture. Salazar said he will stay in the role for a full term in lieu of running again for Congress. “It’s not a political job — it’s an agricultural job,” Salazar said. “I’ve always loved agriculture, and it’s great being home in Colorado. I believe I can do a good job for agriculture in the state.” Salazar said his vision for the office includes promoting value-added agricultural products like organics and all-natural foods, forging partnerships between the clean-energy sector and farmers and ranchers, and cultivating international markets for Colorado’s agricultural products. Cuba is among the nations where he hopes to peddle the state’s wares.
More coverage from Ruth Heide writing for the Valley Courier. From the article:
One of the considerations for Salazar accepting Gov.-elect John Hickenlooper’s offer to head up the state agricultural department was the agreement that he could set up a field office in the San Luis Valley and work part of the week out of Denver and the remainder “from home” in the Valley. Concluding three terms in the nation’s capital as U.S. representative for the 3rd Congressional District, Salazar said he had been looking forward to spending more time on the family ranch when he was approached by Hickenlooper to serve in his new cabinet. “I wanted to stay home for a couple of months, but it’s not going to happen,” Salazar said on Wednesday. “It was a tough decision. I love the Valley. I just love it here so much.”
In announcing Salazar’s role in the new administration on Wednesday, Hickenlooper pointed out why Salazar was the perfect candidate for the post. “A thriving agriculture sector is critical to Colorado’s economic recovery,” Hickenlooper said. “Farmers and ranchers are also leading the way as business innovators. Their prosperity helps build a foundation for all of Colorado. And no one has been a more passionate champion for agriculture and rural communities than John Salazar. We are fortunate to have his leadership at the helm of the Department of Agriculture.”
More 2010 Colorado elections coverage here.