FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 13, 2004
CONTACT: Russell Schweiss, (850) 245-2112 

DEP Announces New Appointments for Regulatory Programs

--Yon and Fancher step into new environmental role--

TALLAHASSEE - Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Colleen M. Castille and Deputy Secretary for Regulatory Programs and Energy Allan Bedwell today named Mary Jean Yon as Director of the Division of Waste Management. At the same time, Dick Fancher was tapped to take over as Director of DEP’s Northwest Regulatory District.

“It is a pleasure to continue working with such talented individuals dedicated to protecting public health and Florida’s environment,” said Secretary Castille. “With nearly 50 years of combined experience in environmental management, Mary Jean and Dick will continue to provide the Department with strong leadership.”

Beginning her career with DEP in 1979, Yon worked in a variety of waste management programs, eventually heading the agency’s solid waste program. She assumed her most recent position as DEP’s Northwest District Director in 2001, four years after receiving DEP’s award for Employee of the Year.

“Mary Jean’s firm commitment has achieved superior environmental protection in the Northwest,” said Deputy Secretary Bedwell. “Her progressive style will help DEP effectively manage future opportunities and overcome challenges to ensure long-term protection for Florida’s natural resources.”

Yon’s long history of environmental leadership includes two years with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and cooperative partnerships with organizations such as the Solid Waste Association of North America, Florida Association of Counties, League of Cities and the Florida Local Environmental Resource Agencies. She holds a Masters Degree in Land Use Planning from Florida State University.

Yon leaves the Northwest District in the hands of her former Assistant Director, Dick Fancher. A 30-year veteran of environmental protection, Fancher began his career in 1974 with DEP’s predecessor agency, the Department of Pollution Control. He spent a decade regulating wetland activities in Northwest Florida and managed the wetlands and stormwater programs in the early 1980s.

“Dick has fostered a legacy of successful environmental regulation and restoration. His hard work and dedication have prepared him to lead the Northwest District toward continued success,” said Deputy Secretary Bedwell. “Dick is a natural successor to Mary Jean. His experience will ensure a smooth transition and continued environmental protection in the region.”

During his tenure, Fancher helped initiate habitat restoration activities, including Project GreenShores -- a 15 acre, $1 million community-based estuarine habitat restoration project. His team was awarded the 2003 Coastal America Partnership Award and the 2004 Gulf Guardian Award for partnerships dedicated to environmental stewardship.

From Hurricane Eloise in 1975 to Ivan this past year, Fancher has unprecedented experience in emergency permitting, response and recovery. A dedicated member of the community, Fancher is an active mentor and leader in the District’s Youth Motivator and Angel Tree Program, and has volunteered for a community camping organization for 15 years. He holds two Master’s degrees from Syracuse University and Regent University in Education and Management respectively.

Yon and Fancher assume their new roles on January 18, 2005.

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