David Johnston Named Director of MassDEP's Southeast Regional Office in Lakeville
BOSTON - Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) Commissioner Kenneth L. Kimmell today announced the appointment of David R. Johnston as Regional Director of MassDEP's Southeast Regional Office in Lakeville. Johnston has worked the past 26 years on efforts to protect the environment and public health in Massachusetts.
For the past three years, Johnston has served as acting director of the Lakeville office, managing the day-to-day operations of one of four MassDEP regional offices and overseeing the work of approximately 120 engineers, scientists, environmental planners, IT professionals and administrative support staff.
"During his career at MassDEP, David Johnston has made a difference in the quality of life for Massachusetts residents through his efforts to protect the environment," said Commissioner Kimmell. "I know he will continue to bring that dedication and experience to the staff at our Lakeville office, which encompasses among the most critical areas of environmental concern in the state."
Before serving as acting director, Johnston served from 1995-2008 as deputy regional director for the Bureau of Waste Prevention, and from 1995-1997 as deputy regional director for the Bureau of Resource Protection. He also served as an investigator on the Massachusetts Environmental Strike Force and as an environmental analyst in the Boston and Worcester offices of MassDEP.
"Southeastern Massachusetts is home to many of the most important and sensitive natural resources in the Commonwealth, and the Lakeville office plays a vital role in protecting those resources and the public health," said Johnston. "But we cannot do it alone. That is why I will continue to partner with federal, state and local officials, environmental groups, and neighborhood coalitions to ensure that our communities are protected and environmental issues are addressed in a timely manner."
Johnston earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Health and Microbiology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.
MassDEP's Southeast Office has 120 employees servicing the environmental needs of 84 communities.
MassDEP is responsible for ensuring clean air and water, safe management and recycling of solid and hazardous wastes, timely cleanup of hazardous waste sites and spills, and the preservation of wetlands and coastal resources.
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