Minnesota Ag Connection - Kessler Named Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner

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Kessler Named Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner
Minnesota Ag Connection - 11/01/2021

Governor Tim Walz appointed Katrina Kessler to serve as commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), effective Nov. 1. Prior to this appointment, Kessler served as MPCA assistant commissioner for Water Policy and Agriculture.

"I am proud to appoint Katrina Kessler as Commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency," said Walz. "Katrina is a dedicated public servant with a long track record of implementing innovative solutions at both the state and municipal level that are good for the environment and good for business. She is deeply committed to our Administration's One Minnesota vision and is prepared to lead the state forward during this critical time to protect our state's waters, air, land, and climate for future generations of Minnesotans."

"While Minnesota is a leader in combatting climate change, we still have work to do to build a sustainable future," said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. "Katrina Kessler has the passion and depth of experience necessary to bring people together to help solve complex issues and get things done. We're proud to have her join our Cabinet and work across lines of difference to build a sustainable future for our environment and for all Minnesotans."

"We can continue to foster stronger economic growth and protect our natural resources by embracing the best science, local innovation, and Minnesota common sense," said Kessler. "I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to build upon the MPCA's exceptional work to create a better climate, prevent and address PFAS contamination, and ensure those Minnesotans disproportionately impacted by pollution have cleaner air and water."

Kessler was appointed assistant commissioner for Water Policy and Agriculture in April 2019. Prior to Kessler's return to the agency, she was the director of the Surface Water and Sewers Division at the city of Minneapolis. In that role, she was responsible for providing strategic direction for the management of the city's 150-year-old sewer infrastructure along with work to meet climate and water quality goals. Previously, Kessler worked at the MPCA for 13 years as a permit engineer in the Municipal and Industrial Divisions. She also served as the Effluent Limits supervisor and manager of the Water Assessment Section in the Environmental Analysis and Outcomes Division. Kessler has a bachelor's degree in environmental science from American University and a master's degree in environmental engineering from the University of Minnesota.

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