Governor Mike Parson announced Dru Buntin as the Director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, effective immediately, at a press conference on Wednesday, August 11.

According to a press release, Buntin worked closely with former Director Comer during her illness and stepped up to be a steady hand of leadership upon her passing.

Director Buntin first joined DNR in 2000 as the Director of Government Affairs and advanced to Deputy Director for Policy and Chief of Water Resources. In 2013, he became the Executive Director of the Upper Missouri River Basin Association before rejoining DNR in 2017.

Buntin has over 15 years of experience with DNR and more than 20 years experience in Missouri state government.

Director Dru Buntin says he looks forward to bringing his experience in collaboration with the Department’s complex issues.

In other news, Governor parson gave an update on COVID-19 vaccination rates and announced a $30 million funding to support Missouri’s health care system.