Governor Combines DNR and DEQ

Governor Granholm announced Executive Order 2009-45 today, combining the Department of Natural Resources with the Department of Environmental Quality to create a new Department of Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE).  This change is scheduled to take effect January 17, 2010.  The Governor's press release can be viewed at http://www.michigan.gov/gov/0,1607,7-168--223864--,00.html.  The Executive Order can be read at http://www.michigan.gov/documents/gov/EO_2009-45_296199_7.pdf.  The Governor has appointed Brice Rasher, former mayor of the city of Marshall, as the transition manager for the combination.  This move falls in line with Lt. Governor Cherry's charge to streamline state government and langauge in the recently approved DNR/DEQ budget bill that called for consolidating the departments.  More information on this change will be posted here as it comes to light.