Gov. Mike Dunleavy has named John Crowther as commissioner-designee for the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, formalizing a leadership transition that has been underway since Crowther was appointed acting commissioner last month. His name will now move to the Alaska Legislature for confirmation during the 2026 session.
Crowther, a longtime DNR official with deep experience in Alaska’s energy and resource sectors, brings more than a decade of work inside the department. He began his DNR career in 2012 during the Parnell Administration and most recently served as deputy commissioner overseeing the oil and gas, project permitting, and geological survey divisions.
Before returning to the department, Crowther directed the governor’s office in Washington, DC and previously worked on the US Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College and a juris doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center.
Dunleavy said Crowther offers a strong blend of expertise and stewardship focus, while Crowther emphasized the department’s constitutional mandate to develop and conserve Alaska’s natural resources. Both highlighted the importance of balancing responsible development with long-term benefits for the state.
With the designation now official, Crowther will continue leading the department as acting commissioner until lawmakers take up his confirmation, which is likely to not be controversial.
One thought on “John Crowther named DNR commissioner”
Hopefully the state constitution of “managing for the maximum yield of the people” is adhered to.
It’s not “maximum opportunity of tourist to take a picture of a predator” which negates the state Constitution listed above.
Manage predators and habitat first. Not just manage people first and foremost.