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continued from page 1 In 1972, Gene's interest in local government compelled him to enter a race for Coon Rapids City Council. He ran a successful campaign and was elected. to the Coon Rapids City Council at age 28. Gene continued to serve his community on local councils unti11974 when he ran for and was elected state senator. He went on to win many more elections and served 22 years in the Minnesota State Senate. While serving in the senate, Gene's interest in the outdoors and environmental issues grew. He served on the natural resources and agriculture committee, serving as chair for several years. In 1996, Gene decided not to run for Senate, and instead, went to work for former Minnesota Governor, Elmer L. Andersen as CFO of ECM Publishers, Inc. While back in ------- - the business world, Gene continued to -- be involved with ': government and - ~ natural resources. ~~' He dedicated his time and knowledge ,~ to the Minnesota Zoo board, Minnesota "Forest Resources Council, Minnesota ~ Audubon, and the '~ Minnesota Center '~~~ for Environmental Advocacy. of state land, including forests and parks. He managed the department during floods, droughts, and fires. Gene worked with Minnesota Pollution Control Agency on the many issues facing our vast number of waters and waterways. One of many of his achievements as Commissioner of the DNR was working to implement the Sustainable Forestry Act- which helps to ensure the sustainability of the many working forests in Minnesota that produce wood products. Minnesota now has the largest amount of certified forests, which ensure sustainable environmental management. Gene was also part of forming the Governor's Water Cabinet Initiative, a committee whose mission is to help Minnesotans protect the state's waters from present and future threats; ensure safe water to sustain healthy communities; keep an accurate and realistic picture of the "state of our waters" so that response can be effective and appropriate to meet new threats; and work aggressively to restore those waters that have been the casualties of society's great progress. During his time in the state Senate, Gene witnessed the establishment of regulations combined with public education and saw many positive changes in Minnesota. "All aspects of behavioral change occur with the right amount of balance of regulation and education," notes Gene. As Gene leads the Freshwater Society, his history in government and natural resources will be significant, as the Society becomes an organization of influence on water issues. "To change the issues affecting freshwater resources we need to bring about a cultural shift. No one can do it by himself or herself. FWS will play a significant role in raising the public conscience to preserve and protect water resources. The issues are multi-faceted, with no silver bullet and collaboration will be necessary." Gene is the loving father to Jeff, Brian, and Katie and grandfather to five.. He continues to be an avid fisherman and hunter, and prefers to be in the natural environment he's worked his life to protect and sustain. In 2002, after Governor Tim Pawlenty was elected, he sought Gene to head the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Gene was appointed as DNR Commissioner in January 2003 and served until. January 2007. As Commissioner of the DNR, Gene was charged with overseeing 4.5 million acres The 7th Annual ®ad Salt Sy®sium February 5, 2008 n CROWNE PLAZA CONFERENCE CENTER IN BROOKLYN PARK Experts from across the U.S. will convene to discuss the harmful impacts caused by road salt and other winter maintenance practices. Among the topics being discussed: • Harmful impacts on the environment, vegetation, and human health. • Costs of corrosion to infrastructure, including bridges. • Deicing and anti-icing advances in the new Minneapolis 35W bridge plan. • Using environmentally friendly methods without compromising safety. For more information on the event, please visit www.freshwater.org or call Jeanne at 952-471-9773 FACETS December 2007 Gene Merriam enjoying the outdoors.