On Monday, November 30, California Department of Conservation Division of Oil, Gas and Geothermal Resources (“DOGGR”) Supervisor Steven Bohlen submitted his resignation to Governor Jerry Brown, less than 18 months after taking the position.

A statement issued by Governor Brown reveals that Steven Bohlen will return to his position at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory but will also continue to assist DOGGR as an unpaid science advisor. Governor Brown stated that “Steve brought strong leadership and valuable scientific expertise to the job of improving oil and gas oversight.”

Shortly after Bohlen’s resignation, the Governor named Ken Harris to take his place. Harris will leave his post as the Executive Officer for the Central Coast Regional Water Quality Control Board. Previously, he served in various capacities at the State Water Resources Control Board from 1987 to 2012.

This position does not require Senate confirmation and is effective immediately.

Bohlen’s departure comes as Governor Brown is scheduled to join leaders from more than 120 nations at the Paris Climate Conference.