PRINEVILLE, OR -- Crook County has named its Natural Resources Manager. Tim Deboodt is a long-time Crook County resident with nearly 40 years of experience and a Doctorate in Rangeland Ecology.

In a statement issued by the county, Deboodt says he will take a strategic role "in framing the activity on our public lands." He’ll oversee creation of a citizen committee and partnerships with state and federal agencies as the county implements its Natural Resources Plan. The controversial plan, approved in November, aims to coordinate management of public lands in the area.  

As Manager of Natural Resources, county officials say Deboodt's work will focus on "several key areas critical to Crook County," including:

• Responsible Use of Natural Resources
• Access to Public Lands
• Economic Implications for Natural Resources
• Health and Sustainability of Public Lands
• Natural Resources Education and Awareness
• Preservation of Cultural Interests

Pictured: Crook County's Ochoco Reservoir