Washington, D.C. -- Environmental Working Group (EWG) Executive Director Heather White said today that President Obama’s choice of Sally Jewell as Secretary of Interior underscores the importance of national parks and public lands in the American experience.
Jewell is currently the CEO of Recreational Equipment Inc., or REI, the Sumner, Wash.-based retailer of outdoor equipment and clothing, and has been actively involved in environmental issues over the years. Jewell, a former petroleum engineer, was the 2009 recipient of the Rachel Carson Award for Environmental Conservation from the Audubon Society and is a current member of the board of the National Parks Conservation Association.
“In selecting Sally Jewell, President Obama has sent a strong signal that he wants someone at Interior who will emphasize the important role our national parks and public lands play in the American experience. By every account, Jewell has been committed to not only protecting our outdoors, but working to expand the number of people, particularly children, who get to enjoy it. Protecting our public lands from irresponsible oil and gas drilling and mining practices will be a crucial task for the new Interior Secretary. If confirmed by the Senate, Jewell will bring a unique and extensive portfolio of experience to the job. EWG looks forward to working with Jewell, if confirmed, and her colleagues at the Interior Department on a host of issues vital to making sure our national natural treasures are preserved for future generations.”