Colorado Department of Natural Resources Executive Director Jim Martin was appointed as the new regional administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Region VIII office.

“Over the past three years, Jim has served the people of Colorado with great distinction as a key member of my administration,” Gov. Ritter said. “He is one of the most honorable people in public service. He is widely respected and trusted by people with diverse and often opposing viewpoints because he is able to work through complex issues and find areas of common ground. His leadership of both the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment and the Colorado Department of Natural Resources has made a material difference in the future of our state, and will improve the quality of life in Colorado for decades to come.”

Martin was involved in several pieces environmental legislation this year, including the recently signed Colorado Clean Air-Clean Jobs Act.