Vermont Business Magazine Governor Phil Scott has appointed John Beling as commissioner of the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). Beling has served as interim commissioner since April 15, and as DEC’s general counsel since 2018. Beling replaces Peter Walke, who served as DEC commissioner for two years.
“John is an important member of our team and a proven leader in state government,” said Governor Scott. “He will be a valuable asset in leading DEC, protecting our environment and serving Vermonters.”
Beling will now lead DEC’s 300 employees working to promote clean air, clean water and healthy communities in Vermont. DEC is one of three departments in the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR), along with the Fish and Wildlife Department and the Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.
“John brings a wealth of expertise in the multi-faceted work of environmental protection and has strong relationships within the agency, as well as throughout state government and the Vermont environmental community,” said ANR Secretary Julie Moore.
Currently a resident of East Montpelier, Beling has also served as an attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. EPA, the Vermont and Massachusetts attorneys general offices, the Vermont Department of Public Service and the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. He is a graduate of Tufts University and St. John’s University School of Law.
“I appreciate the opportunity to serve as commissioner and look forward to continuing to work with the talented and hard-working staff at DEC,” said Commissioner Beling. “We have an exceptional group of employees who are up to the challenges and opportunities present here in Vermont.”
The is appointment is effective immediately. To learn more about the Department of Environmental Conservation, visit https://dec.vermont.gov/.
7.14.2022. Montpelier, Govenor www.vermont.gov
