Walker names former legislator as DNR secretary

Gov. Scott Walker has selected a former legislator to run the state Department of Natural Resources.

Walker's office announced Monday that he has chosen former Republican state Rep. Dan Meyer to serve as DNR secretary. He replaces Cathy Stepp, who resigned in August to take a position in President Donald Trump's administration.

Meyer represented the 34th Assembly District in far northern Wisconsin from 2001 until 2013. He also has served as mayor of Eagle River and as the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce's executive director.

Walker said in a news release that Meyer understands the balance between protecting natural resources and supporting the economy. Meyer said in the release that he will work to protect Wisconsin's natural resources so they remain a source of recreation, economic growth and natural history.

Statement from Rep. Dana Wachs (D-Candidate for Governor):

"Wisconsin deserves a DNR Secretary that's accountable to the people, protects the environment, and stands up for hunters and fishermen. Governor Walker has decided to again puts politics over people in his appointment of an insider to head the agency."

"I strongly support a return to an independent DNR Secretary who will do what is best for Wisconsin."