DNR announces two new appointments

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources recently made two high-level appointments.

Steve Colvin is the new deputy director of the Ecological and Water Resources Division, replacing Dave Luethe who retired.

“Steve is a top-notch veteran of the division who has shown an impressive capacity to manage tough issues,” noted Steve Hirsh, Ecological and Water Resources Division director. “He has the unique ability for both high-level strategic thinking, as well as diving into complex details when needed. I’m confident Steve’s talents will serve the division well as we continue to deliver healthy watersheds throughout Minnesota.”

Colvin served at the DNR in various positions since 1983 when he first joined the department as a natural resources specialist in fisheries research, and later as an aquatic biologist coordinating the statewide aquatic nuisance program, among other responsibilities.

He also served as a natural resources programs supervisor for ecological resources and spent the last five years as the department’s state administrative planning director, leading the environmental review unit.

Colvin earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Cornell University and a master’s degree in environmental biology from the University of Minnesota.

His first day as deputy director is Jan. 30.

Luke Skinner is the new deputy director for the Parks and Trails Division. Skinner has served as the division’s acting deputy director since May.

Skinner has more than 20 years of experience with the DNR in roles ranging from natural resources specialist to supervisor. Since 2007, he has served as unit supervisor of the invasive species program in the ecological and water resources division.

“Luke brings valuable perspective and experience to the legislative, policy and organizational design challenges we continue to face in parks and trails,” said Courtland Nelson, director of the DNR Parks and Trails Division. “His strong leadership skills and ability to work effectively with a wide variety of stakeholders will be a great asset to our division.”

Skinner earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Minnesota-Duluth and a doctorate in entomology from the University of Minnesota, where he has been an adjunct assistant professor since 2006.

Skinner’s first day as deputy director was Jan. 7.