DEP names new deputy secretary of land and recreation

Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Jon Steverson has named Gary Clark deputy secretary of land and recreation. Beginning this week, Clark will manage two DEP divisions: Recreation and Parks, and State Lands.

A lifelong resident of Chipley, Clark most recently served as vice president of member services for the West Florida Electric Cooperative Association. In this role, Clark was responsible for overseeing marketing, public relations, governmental affairs and economic development programs for a rural electric cooperative. In addition, he also is a director of Community Bank in Chipley and co-owns Hard Labor Creek Shooting Sports, Inc.

Clark has remained active in his community through various local groups by serving as a governing board member of the Northwest Florida Water Management District and as a member of Chipola College’s board of trustees. Additionally, Clark was a founding member of the Opportunity Florida Regional Economic Development Council and has been a member of the Washington County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors since 1990.

“Gary brings a broad range of management experience, leadership skills and investment expertise to this position,” Steverson said. “He will be a tremendous asset to the state and department."