Grand Rapids Reporter

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has named Dan Eichinger as acting director of the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE).

Eichinger is currently the director at the Department of Natural Resources, where he has served since 2019, according to a news release from the governor's office. Previously, he was the Michigan United Conservation Club's executive director where he helped to make the organization an advocate of conserving the state's natural resources and outdoor activities.

He replaces former director Liesl Eichler Clark.

“The work of everyone at EGLE can positively impact every citizen in this state and the natural resources we hold dear,” Eichinger said in a news release. “I appreciate Gov. Whitmer’s confidence in me to work with the talented and innovative team here as we build programs and systems that protect the wellbeing of our state and citizens today and into the future. I am personally grateful to Director Clark who is a positive, people-first leader and a first-class friend who has accomplished a great deal during her tenure.”

His education resume includes a bachelor’s degree and a master of science in fisheries and wildlife from Michigan State University and a master of public administration from Central Michigan University.

Eichinger is replacing Liesl Clark, who helped lead the state's response to flooding, water infrastructure and drinking water problems. Clark was also instrumental in establishing the Michigan Healthy Climate Plan to create an avenue to carbon-neutrality. 

"Serving with my dedicated, hard-working EGLE colleagues and seeing first-hand their passion and commitment to Michigan’s people and natural resources has been a true privilege,” Liesl Clark said. “I thank Gov. Whitmer for the opportunity to help lead the agency and create exciting momentum around urgent priorities like climate change, environmental justice, safe drinking water, and protecting the Great Lakes. 

"I am proud of what we have accomplished together over the past four years and excited about the opportunities ahead to build a more healthy and environmentally sustainable future for Michigan,” she added.

Christy McGillivray, the political and legislative director for Sierra Club Michigan said the new appointments build upon Whitmer's "groundbreaking victories" during her first term.

"These include significant investments in drinking and wastewater infrastructureand the significant commitments to mitigating climate change in the Michigan Healthy Climate Plan," she said. "Sierra Club is excited to build on these successes in Gov. Whitmer's next four years with new team members."