For Immediate Release

MEDIA
ALERT
New PCA Appointee Paul Aasen
Provides Diverse Background and
Experience

Saint Paul --- Leaders of Minnesota’s business, environmental and agriculture communities are
applauding Governor-Elect Mark Dayton’s decision to appoint Paul Aasen as the state’s new
Pollution Control Agency (PCA) Commissioner.

Aasen has spent over ten years working with the State of Minnesota, beginning with a six-year
stint heading the Minnesota Emergency Response Commission. He also served as an assistant
commissioner at the Department of Public Safety and as Director of Government Relations and
Policy for the office of Governor Jesse Ventura. Aasen is currently Advocacy Director at the
Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy where he most notably played a key role in the
passage of the Clean Water, Land and Legacy Amendment which was approved by 59% of
Minnesota voters in 2008.

Here is what some people are saying about the pick:

"Paul's career reflects his ability to make government work more effectively and better serve the
people of Minnesota. He'll be an effective leader in the fight to clean up and protect our treasured
lakes and rivers." -- Gene Merriam, President, Freshwater Society; former Commissioner,
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources

"Paul Aasen is a solid choice for the Pollution Control Agency. He brings a common sense
approach to building our natural resources and has a track record of consensus building, which
will be invaluable traits for someone in this position." -- Doug Peterson, President, Minnesota
Farmers Union

"Paul's collaborative style was instrumental in uniting the sportsmen and environmental
communities around passage of the Clean Water amendment. He is uniquely able to find shared
values amongst diverse coalitions, a much-needed asset as the state addresses it's polluted water
problem." -- Paul Austin, Executive Director, Conservation Minnesota

“What appeals to me with regard to Paul Aasen from a business perspective is that he is both
clear in his communication and reasonable in his approach. Finding a reasonable middle ground
while not forgoing the environmental protection that is fair to the state and its residents is key to
the success of the agency. “ -- David Hartwell, President, Bellcomb Technologies
MORE INFO: To set up an interview with any of the people quoted here, or to find other
supporters of the selection, please contact Nate Dybvig at 651.230.3018, or nate@spinfirm.com