New State Director for BLM Alaska Identified

BLM today announced the appointment of Chad Padgett as the new BLM Alaska State Director. Padgett brings decades of experience and leadership in public land management in Alaska.

In making the announcement, BLM Deputy Director for Policy and Programs Brian Steed praised Padgett’s extensive record of public service and his ability to motivate and manage employees, and to work with partners, elected officials and local communities. Steed also said Padgett is an exceptional leader who will immeasurably improve BLM’s ability to effectively and efficiently manage public lands for the benefit of current and future generations of Americans.

As the BLM Alaska State Director, Padgett will oversee management of 72 million acres of public land across the state, including spectacular mountains, wetlands, and tundra. Padgett served for the past 10 years as the Alaska State Director to Congressman Don Young of Alaska, and has a broad range of knowledge on Alaska issues.  From 2001 to 2009, Padgett served as Alaska State Executive Director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Farm Service Agency, where he played a key role in developing policies and the budget for Alaska, and in planning, organizing, administering, and directing programs and management activities for the state. He also served for two years in a dual role as acting State Director for USDA Rural Development, where he was responsible for managing rural housing programs, community facilities, business and cooperative programs, and rural utilities programs throughout the state. 

Earlier in his career, Padgett worked in Congressman Young’s state office for seven years, including six as Deputy District Director.  As Deputy Director, he oversaw the operation of five offices based in Alaska, while also working closely with many Federal agencies, including the BLM. Padgett has a bachelor’s degree in political science and international relations from Boise State University.