Saint Paul – Governor Tim Pawlenty today appointed Paul Eger as Commissioner of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA). Eger replaces Brad Moore who left the agency to pursue an employment opportunity in the private sector. The appointment is effective immediately.

Eger, 35, has held several positions at MPCA since 2002 including Assistant Commissioner for Water Policy and Clean Water Policy Manager. He most recently managed the internal operations of the agency as Deputy Commissioner.

“Paul’s leadership at MPCA makes him the right person to lead the agency in its mission to protect, conserve, and improve our environment,” Governor Pawlenty said. “Paul was instrumental in the effort to pass a comprehensive budget to fund the landmark Clean Water Legacy Act.”

Before joining the MPCA as its Legislative Liaison in 2002, Eger was a Committee Administrator for the late State Senator Sam Solon, Chair of the Senate Commerce Committee. He also served as the Legislative Assistant to State Senator James Metzen when he served as Chair of the Senate Governmental Operations and Veterans Committee.

Eger earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from St. Olaf College in Northfield and his Master of Arts in Public Administration from Hamline University Graduate School of Management in St. Paul. Eger lives in Eagan, Minnesota.

“Governor Pawlenty is a leader on environmental issues and I look forward to helping him build a lasting legacy of clean water and clean air,” said Commissioner Eger. “During these challenging times, MPCA will need to examine the work we do and how we do it while focusing on our mission to protect Minnesota’s environment. I am honored by this appointment.”

The MPCA monitors environmental quality, enforces environmental regulations, and cleans up spills or leaks that can affect the public’s health and environment. The agency also helps local government, industry and individuals meet their environmental responsibilities. MPCA’s approximately 900 employees are based in eight offices around the state including the agency’s headquarters in St. Paul.