The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

The Nature Conservancy released the following statement today from its President and CEO, Mark R. Tercek, regarding today’s confirmation hearing for Sally Jewell, President and CEO of REI, for U.S. Secretary of the Interior:

“Sally Jewell clearly has the ability and the background to understand the inextricable link between conservation, responsible development of our natural resources, and a healthy American economy. I supported her nomination because she has the energy, integrity, experience, ability and dedication necessary to be an effective Secretary of the Interior.

“I am even more encouraged and hopeful after her confirmation hearing today. From her statements, it is obvious that Jewell is deeply committed to conserving our nation's lands and waters, helping the economy by providing opportunities for outdoor recreation and responsibly developing energy and other resources. Her insights from the worlds of business, management, outdoor recreation and energy will all be highly valuable for the Department of the Interior.

“If confirmed, Jewell will inherit a positive legacy at the Department from Secretary Salazar, and I am pleased to see that he will be able to pass on the leadership of such a critical government agency to highly capable hands. I am eager to work with Jewell to advance the policies needed to conserve for future generations America’s treasured lands and waters.”

Note: Tercek also recently sent a letter to Chairman Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Ranking Member Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources supporting Jewell’s confirmation. View letter (PDF).