JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Today, Governor Mike Kehoe announced the appointment of Jake Buxton as director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Buxton currently serves as DNR deputy director, overseeing the department’s Division of State Parks, the Missouri Geological Survey, and the Division of Administrative Support.
“Throughout his career in public service, Jake has worked to build relationships with elected leaders, local governments, and stakeholders in agriculture, business, and non-profits, earning a reputation as a leader, trusted advisor, and knowledgeable advocate,” said Governor Kehoe. “I am proud to welcome Jake to the Cabinet, and I am confident he will do an excellent job leading the Missouri Department of Natural Resources in its mission as a steward of our state’s natural resources.”
Buxton will assume the role of DNR director effective September 4, 2026, and awaits Missouri Senate confirmation.
“I would like to thank Governor Kehoe for the opportunity to lead the Department of Natural Resources as we move into the future,” said Buxton. “We will continue to work closely with our stakeholders, including local communities and Missouri landowners, to steward our natural and cultural resources in a way that is beneficial to Missourians.”
Prior to being named DNR deputy director in January 2025, Buxton previously worked in the Governor’s Office and as a legislative liaison for the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Buxton holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Truman State University. A headshot of Buxton is attached here.