Scenic Hudson Praises Governor Hochul for Nominating Amanda Lefton to Lead New York DEC

CONTACT:
Pete Lopez, Executive Director of Policy, Advocacy & Science
518 378 8039, plopez@scenichudson.org
Riley Johndonnell, Director of Communications & Creative Strategies
845 473 4440 Ext. 222, rjohndonnell@scenichudson.org

For Immediate Release

HUDSON VALLEY –  Scenic Hudson congratulates Governor Hochul for nominating Amanda Lefton to head the State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), a vital appointment to safeguard the environment and help enhance the lives of all New Yorkers. Through this selection, the governor is demonstrating her commitment to moving New York forward in 2025 — and beyond. 

Amanda Lefton is an award-winning leader in developing the U.S. offshore wind industry. As the director of the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management under the Biden Administration from 2021-2023 she oversaw the establishment of the nation’s first two offshore wind projects. Before that, as New York State’s First Assistant Secretary for Energy and Environment, Lefton managed the state’s climate and environmental initiatives and 12 agencies — including the DEC. Lefton was previously the Deputy Policy Director for The Nature Conservancy in New York.

QUOTE:
“Amanda Lefton is exactly the commissioner New York State needs right now at the helm of DEC,” said Scenic Hudson President Ned Sullivan. “She is a seasoned leader with a proven track record of successfully navigating all levels of government. Amanda will lead the state’s actions to achieve its ambitious environmental goals — clean water and air, and resiliency. We look forward to her confirmation by the Senate and to working with her under Governor Hochul’s leadership to ensure a healthy Hudson River and Valley with good-paying jobs for the people of New York.”