MONTGOMERY, Ala., June 16 — The Alabama Farmers Federation welcomed Friday’s appointment of Ed Poolos as director of the Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM).   

“In working with government agencies, farmers and timber owners look for individuals who will listen to stakeholders, apply the law fairly and lead with integrity,” said Federation President Jimmy Parnell. “Director Lance LeFleur has been this kind of leader at ADEM for 15 years, and we believe Ed Poolos has the knowledge and skills to build on the agency’s relationships and reputation.”

The Alabama Environmental Management Commission voted to appoint Poolos after interviewing four finalists for the director’s job during a public meeting. A total of 10 applicants sought to replace LeFleur. 

Poolos has served as deputy commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for eight years. Prior to that, he worked 25 years at ADEM, including 17 years as a manager in ADEM’s North Alabama Field Office in Decatur.

“I am extremely grateful for Commissioner (Chris) Blankenship and Gov. (Kay) Ivey for putting their trust in me in helping lead the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. I learned a lot,” Poolos said. “ADEM and ADCNR have two big things in common — serving the people and protecting the environment. “I really look forward to returning to ADEM. I know the department well — its dedicated staff and its mission. I am 100% invested in making the department better, safeguarding the environment and protecting the health and well-being of all Alabamians. I am extremely excited about this opportunity.”

Parnell said no one is more prepared to take the reins as ADEM director.

“Ed has managed multi-million-dollar budgets, led hundreds of employees and shepherded meaningful bills through the legislative process,” Parnell said. “He has developed relationships both in Montgomery and Washington, D.C., that will benefit ADEM’s mission. As a veteran of the agency, Ed will have instant credibility and will be able to hit the ground running to strengthen ADEM programs and operations. During his time at ADCNR, Ed has demonstrated his commitment to be a boots-on-the-ground leader. We’re confident ADEM will benefit from his steady leadership and presence in Montgomery.”

A starting date for Poolos at ADEM has not been set.