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Karl Brooks Selected to Lead EPA's Region 7

Release Date: 01/13/2010
Contact Information: Rich Hood, (913) 551-7906, hood.rich@epa.gov


Environmental News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

(Kansas City, Kan., Jan. 13, 2010) - Today, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa P. Jackson announced President Barack Obama’s selection of Karl Brooks to be the Agency’s Regional Administrator for EPA’s Region 7. This region encompasses Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, and 9 Tribal Nations.

"I look forward to working closely with Karl on the range of urgent environmental issues we face, in region 7 and across the nation," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "At this moment of great challenge and even greater opportunity, I'm thrilled that Karl will be part of our leadership team at EPA. He will certainly play an instrumental role in our Agency's mission to protect our health and the environment."

Regional Administrators are responsible for managing the Agency’s regional activities under the direction of the EPA Administrator. They promote state and local environmental protection efforts and serve as a liaison to state and local government officials. Regional Administrators are tasked with ensuring EPA's efforts to address the environmental crises of today are rooted in three fundamental values: science-based policies and programs, adherence to the rule of law, and transparency.

Karl Brooks has taught History and Environmental studies at the University of Kansas for the past decade. Previously, Brooks was the Executive Director of the Idaho Conservation League and served six years in the Idaho State Senate. Brooks holds a B.A. from Yale University, a Masters in International Relations from the London School of Economics, a law degree from Harvard University and a Ph. D. from the University of Kansas.