Washington Department of Ecology Director Maia Bellon issued the following statement:
“After 25 years of state service, and nearly seven years as Ecology’s director, I have made the decision to step down at the end of this year. Arriving at this choice has been bittersweet, but I’m confident that it’s the right time for me to make a professional and personal change.
“My current plans are to enjoy some time off reconnecting with my family and friends. I then intend to dust off my law degree and try my hand at private practice focusing on environmental law and policy.
“There is much I will miss, but what I especially look forward to is spending more time with my daughter and her growing list of sports and other high school events that I don’t want to miss.
“It has been an incredible honor to serve Gov. Jay Inslee and lead Ecology’s mission of environmental protection and restoration in Washington state.”
Statement from Governor Jay Inslee:
“Maia has been a resolute leader who has made decisions based on science and data, listened to impacted communities and worked tirelessly to protect our state’s water, air and lands,” Gov. Jay Inslee said. “The work she has done at the Department of Ecology will benefit Washingtonians for generations to come. While she will greatly be missed, I know that whatever challenges Maia takes on next will be met with the same dedication and passion that she has brought to state service.”