Oregon Department of Forestry director resigns suddenly
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – The director of the Oregon Department of Forestry has stepped down, according to Gov. Tina Kotek.
State Forester Cal Mukumoto has resigned from his position, which he will continue to serve until 5 p.m. on Jan. 23. The circumstances surrounding his resignation are unclear.
“I thank Cal for his service,” Gov. Kotek said. “Oregonians deserve strong leadership to chart a proactive path to protect our state’s forests for the benefit of healthy ecosystems, thriving communities and a strong economy.”
Kotek shared that her office will work closely with the Board of Forestry to “ensure a robust recruitment process” for ODF’s next State Forester.
“I expect all state agencies to operate with the highest standard of transparency and accountability,” Kotek said.
Multiple Republicans criticized Mukumoto and the department following the resignation.
“This change is long overdue,” said Senator Lynn Findley (R-Vale). “ODF needs fresh leadership to fix its problems and get back to serving Oregonians. We need leaders who focus on fire prevention, fiscal responsibility, and restoring trust. This is the agency’s opportunity for a new direction. Hopefully, it’s a better one.”
“ODF’s leadership struggled to manage the basics, leaving hardworking contractors waiting for payment and taxpayers footing the bill. That’s why Senate Republicans called for better leadership at ODF after the special session in December,” added Senate Leader Daniel Bonham (R-The Dalles). “With today’s resignation, we have a chance to reset. Oregon needs an agency that prioritizes its mission and uses resources wisely to keep communities safe and forests healthy.”