Gov. Gregoire names new Dept. of Ecology director

This morning, Gov. Chris Gregoire appointed Ted Sturdevant as the new director of the state Department of Ecology. He’ll replace Jay Manning, who now serves as Gregoire’s chief of staff.

Sturdevant has worked as the director of Governmental Relations at the department for the past seven years, which Gregoire said was a strength. “Ted knows this agency — he has a strong familiarity with its priorities and challenges,” she said. Last year, Gregoire awarded Sturdevant with the Governor’s Award for Leadership Management.

Sturdevant said he’s sure his department can continue to improve the state’s environment despite budgetary challenges. “Gov. Gregoire is the best governor for the environment the state has ever had,” he said.

Update: The press conference will play tonight on TVW at 8 p.m.

Tags: department of ecology, Gov. Gregoire