John Crowther Named DNR Commissioner-designeeJohn Crowther Named DNR Commissioner-designeeContinue Reading

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy has named John Crowther commissioner-designee for the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. Crowther was appointed acting commissioner last month; his name will now be submitted to the Alaska Legislature for confirmation during the 2026 session.

"John Crowther brings a deep understanding of Alaska's natural resources and a proven commitment to responsible stewardship. His balanced approach to development and conservation makes him an exceptional choice to lead the Department of Natural Resources and serve the long-term interests of Alaskans," said Governor Dunleavy.

"The Department's constitutional mission to develop, conserve and maximize the use of Alaska's natural resources is critical to our state," said Commissioner-designee John Crowther. "I will continue working as hard as I can to advance this mission and improve Alaska's future through stewardship and responsible use of our resources. I am honored and humbled to accept the Governor's designation and enthusiastic to lead the dedicated professionals of DNR."

Mr. Crowther first started at the department in 2012 and most recently served as deputy commissioner managing its oil and gas, project permitting, and geological survey divisions. Before re-joining DNR he was Director of the Governor's Washington, D.C. office and was a staffer on the U.S. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. He earned his bachelor's degree in economics from Dartmouth College and juris doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center.