The Department of Environmental Protection Thursday announced Kristen Wolf has been named as its new Chesapeake Bay Program Coordinator to oversee the state’s progress and efforts toward improving the quality of Pennsylvania waters that flow into the Chesapeake Bay.
“I am pleased to add Kristen to the team as Pennsylvania reinforces its commitment to improving the quality of state waterways, and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay,” DEP Deputy Secretary for Water Management Kelly Heffner said. “Kristen’s experience, superior communications skills and dedication will build upon and strengthen our efforts.”
Wolf will coordinate Pennsylvania’s participation in the development of an action plan and management strategies related to the new Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement, signed earlier this year by Gov. Tom Corbett and other state and federal partners.
These management strategies will address sustainable fisheries, vital habitats, water quality, toxic contaminants, healthy watersheds, stewardship, land conservation, public access, environmental literacy and resiliency of the bay ecosystem.
As Chesapeake Bay Program Coordinator, Wolf will sustain and develop partnerships between state and local governments, watershed groups, conservation districts, farmers and the business community.
Prior to her appointment, Wolf spent several years working with PA’s Children’s Health Insurance Program, where she was responsible for public outreach communication initiatives, policy development, special projects, and regulatory and contractual obligations.
Before that, Wolf served DEP as an Executive Assistant to the Deputy Secretary for the Office of Energy and Technology Development and, prior to that, as an Information Specialist, where she served as DEP’s communications liaison for the Office of Water Management.
Since 1985, Pennsylvania has directed more than $4 billion by way of grants, loans and program investments toward Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts and has continued to see a downward trend for all three pollutants of concern: phosphorous, nitrogen and sediment.
Pennsylvania’s Chesapeake Bay Program is managed by DEP’s Interstate Waters Office. This office coordinates Pennsylvania's responsibilities as a member of interstate river basin organizations and develops strategies to utilize established river basin commissions and interstate association to advance partnerships. This office encourages and promotes multi-state cooperation to solve common problems.
For more information, visit DEP’s Chesapeake Bay Program webpage or call 717-772-4785.