After serving five years as the head of the DNR, Secretary Scott Hassett will leave on September 1st. Hassett says he's been talking with the Governor over the past month, and both felt now was the right time to make a change.
Hassett is proud of many accomplishments during his time at the DNR, such as environmental improvements, expansion of the Stewardship program, and overcoming large budget deficits. He says it's also good to see Wisconsin with some of the finest outdoor recreation opportunities in the country, despite challenges such as Chronic Wasting Disease and threats from invasive species.
As for his future plans, Hassett is keeping his options open. He says he might do some writing, consulting, or environmental work.
The Governor has named Corrections Secretary Matt Frank as Hassett's replacement and current DOC Deputy Secretary Rick Raemisch will take over for Frank.