Pillen appoints Bradley interim director for Environment, Natural Resources

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen has appointed Jesse Bradley as the interim director for both the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Department of Environment and Energy (DEE), effective immediately. This move aligns with Pillen's plan to merge the two agencies into a new entity called the Department of Water, Energy and Environment, contingent on the passage of Legislative Bill 317. Bradley, who has served as interim director of DNR since August 2024 and previously held the role in 2020, is recognized for his leadership and experience in water management. Pillen emphasized that improving water quantity and quality is crucial for Nebraska's future, highlighting Bradley's ability to connect local needs with state and federal regulations. The proposed merger will be discussed at a public hearing before the Legislature's Natural Resources Committee. With a history of working on initiatives like the Nitrogen Reduction Incentive Act, Bradley's appointment is seen as a step towards innovative water management in the state.