DeWine Names Director of Policy to Head of Ohio Environmental Protection Agency

Ohio Gov. Mike Devine did not look long for his new head of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency. Dewine policy director Ann Vogel is set to replace outgoing director Lori A. Stevenson, who has announced her intention to step down at the end of the year.

“Ann Vogel has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the management of the Ohio EPA,” said DeWine.

DeWine said Vogel has worked with state leaders on development and has experience working on his agenda.

“Because she has worked with me as director of policy, Ann knows my priorities and will lead this important agency tasked with protecting Ohio’s air, land and water,” DeWine said.

DeWine said that during his first term, Vogel was tasked with launching and implementing H2Ohio, the governor’s water quality initiative. This initiative brings together the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, the Ohio Department of Agriculture, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources to improve water quality in Ohio.

The program has also been designed to reduce phosphorus runoff and prevent algae blooms through greater adoption of good agricultural practices and the creation of wetlands. It is also tasked with improving wastewater infrastructure and replacing failing home septic systems. The program is also expected to prevent lead contamination in high-risk kindergartens and schools.

Vogel holds a law degree from Capital University and an MBA from Ohio State University. The Ohio Senate will have to approve her nomination when it returns in January.