Balash named DNR commissioner

Gov. Sean Parnell has named Joe Balash commissioner of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Balash has served as acting commissioner since Sept. 24.

“Joe is a great addition to my cabinet,” Parnell said Nov. 13 in announcing the appointment. “He has outstanding credentials with a solid understanding of the Department of Natural Resources, public policy, and issues that influence resource development in our state.”

Balash served as one of two deputy DNR commissioners beginning in December 2010, and was charged with the day-to-day management and supervision of the state’s land management agency, with an annual budget of $170 million and 1,100 employees. Balash had direct oversight for the Division of Oil and Gas, Division of Geologic and Geophysical Surveys, the Mental Health Trust Land Office, the State Pipeline Coordinator’s Office, the Gas Pipeline Project Office, and formerly, the Division of Coastal and Ocean Management.

From 2006 to 2010, Balash served as special assistant in the Office of the Governor for energy and natural resources. He also was staff to the Legislative Budget and Audit Committee on gas pipeline negotiations, and was chief of staff to the president of the Alaska Senate.

Balash received a bachelor’s degree in politics and government from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Ore. He resides in Anchorage with his wife and two daughters.

—Petroleum News