Wes Saunders-Pearce, Cfm Email and Phone Number

Wes serves as principal representative and contact for the DNR's water and related land use programs within the North Metro: Anoka and Hennepin Counties. This area spans 1,000 square miles and encompasses 1.7 million people which is thirty percent of the entire state's population! Wes provides guidance and support to over 70 local governments including cities, counties, and watershed management agencies. As a land use expert, he assists local implementation of floodplain and shoreland management, including Wild and Scenic River and Mississippi Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA) Program regulations. Actively represent the DNR in local comprehensive water management efforts. Issue most classes of water permits on behalf of the commissioner. Coordinate work closely with other DNR discipline area supervisors; other state, federal, and local government administrative and elected officials; and citizens to assure compliance with department policies and programs. Communicate directly with stakeholders and negotiate results to problems, develop grant opportunities, and set priorities meeting department objectives. Solve complicated and controversial issues, negotiate effective compromises, develop creative and innovative solutions, and serve the public.