---

A veteran natural resource professional has been promoted to deputy commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by new DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr.

Dave Schad, 53, has served in the DNR since his student worker days in 1981, most recently as director of the agency's Fish and Wildlife Division. Previously he was the agency's Wildlife Section chief; he has also served as wildlife operations manager, regional wildlife manager, area wildlife supervisor, and statewide wetland wildlife coordinator and statewide forest wildlife program coordinator.

"Dave's career path has always angled up due to his depth of knowledge, breadth of managerial skills, and history of good judgment on complex issues," said Landwehr. "Hunters, anglers and all who care about natural resources should be pleased by this appointment."

Landwehr said he's known Schad since they both attended the University of Minnesota, where Schad earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife Management. "We intend to work with the entire DNR team and the citizens of Minnesota for the long-term benefit of our natural resources," said Landwehr.

In addition to his work in Minnesota, Schad serves on several national committees for the national Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies as well as the Midwest Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies.

"I'm honored to have been selected for this position," said Schad. "I look forward to helping deliver what citizens expect - clean water, healthy forests, outstanding recreational opportunities, and strong economies from the prudent use of our natural resources."[[In-content Ad]]

Schad replaces Laurie Martinson, who was named deputy commissioner by former Commissioner Mark Holsten in 2007. Martinson's role and responsibilities, as well as those of other commissioner's office staff, will remain largely unchanged during an upcoming transition period, said Schad.

Schad and his wife, Carol, live in White Bear Lake. Schad is an avid hunter, angler, camper and bicyclist.

There is no word yet on Schad's replacement; however Deputy Fish and Wildlife Division Director Ed Boggess will serve as acting director during the interim.

---