The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection has announced the appointment of Tony Andersen as its new executive officer.

Andersen will lead the board’s operations and policy implementation, serving as the Board’s lead staff person and liaison between government agencies, stakeholders and the public.

Andersen brings nearly two decades of experience in policy, strategic communications, and government affairs through a range of environmental, forestry, and wildfire-related leadership positions. 

Most recently, he served as the deputy secretary for communications at the California Natural Resources Agency following an appointed leadership position at Cal Fire.

Andersen has also helped lead post-fire recovery and community rebuilding efforts following Oregon’s most destructive wildfire season on record in 2020 and served in leadership roles with the Oregon Department of Forestry, Portland Water Bureau and other government leadership roles.

“Tony understands the Board’s mission and the challenges facing California’s forests, rangelands, and communities,” said Terry O’Brien, chair of the Board of Forestry and Fire Protection. “His leadership skills, collaborative approach, and ability to navigate complex natural resource policy issues will be invaluable as we continue to advance sustainable forestry and wildfire resilience across the state.”

In his new role, Andersen will lead the team that supports the Board’s regulatory and policy agenda, facilitate public engagement, and support coordination on initiatives ranging from forest management to wildfire resilience and land-use planning.

“It’s an honor to support the Board in this leadership capacity,” Andersen said. “California’s forests and wildlands are essential to our environment, economy, and way of life. I’m committed to serving the board, our partners, and California communities to ensure our policies reflect both sound science and the needs of those who depend on these landscapes.”

The California Board of Forestry and Fire Protection is a nine-member board appointed by California’s Governor and confirmed by the State Senate.

It is responsible for developing the state’s forest and fire protection policy and adopting regulations that protect and enhance California’s forests and rangelands.