McQueen will head EPA Region 6
Sierra Club criticizes hire due to his background in oil, gas industries
FARMINGTON — A former secretary of the New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department has been appointed to lead Region 6 of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The selection of Ken McQueen was announced in a news release from the EPA.
The former oil and natural gas industry executive will oversee the agency’s work in Region 6, which includes Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas and 66 tribal nations.
EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler said in the release that McQueen’s experience in public service and knowledge of natural resource issues make him “an excellent choice” to head the regional office.
“I look forward to working with Ken to advance the agency’s mission and protect human health and the environment for our south central residents,” Wheeler said.
Camilla Feibelman, director of Sierra Club’s Rio Grande Chapter, denounced McQueen’s appointment in a release from the environmental group.
“McQueen has repeatedly proven he will put the interests of oil and gas companies before our health and the bountiful resources that make New Mexico and Southwest unique,” Feibelman said.
Before serving as a cabinet secretary under former Gov. Susana Martinez’s administration, McQueen spent 14 years as WPX Energy San Juan Vice President and retired in May 2016, according to The Daily Times archives.
Martinez, who appointed McQueen in December 2016, commented about his selection in the EPA release.
“Ken has proved his strong leadership and depth of knowledge within the private sector and as my energy cabinet secretary. I wish Ken much success in his new role,” Martinez said.
McQueen also was an adjunct professor in petroleum engineering at the University of Tulsa.