Stacy J. Welling, a native of Powers, has been named the Department of Natural Resources' Upper Peninsula Field Deputy by DNR Director Rebecca Humphries. Welling will begin her duties effective December 1, 2008.

"I am very pleased that Stacy Welling has agreed to return to Michigan to help the DNR build stronger relationships with the U.P. citizens it serves," Humphries said. "Stacy's experience on both the state and federal levels, along with her lifelong love of the outdoors, will help the DNR and the U.P."

Welling, the granddaughter of a former DNR conservation officer, most recently served as the campaign manager for U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak. Welling also served as Governor Jennifer M. Granholm's northern Michigan representative, working with stakeholders and individuals throughout the U.P. and northern lower Michigan on numerous natural resource related issues. In 2005, Welling received the "Friend of Timberman" legislative award for her work with the timber industry.

"I am honored to serve the residents of the U.P. as a liaison to the Department of Natural Resources, and I look forward to reaching out to the individuals and organizations it serves," Welling said.

Welling holds a master's degree in public administration from Northern Michigan University in Marquette and a bachelor's degree in business management/public relations from NMU as well.

"I want to thank Tom Courchaine for his service as acting U.P. field deputy since the retirement of Jim Ekdahl earlier this year," Humphries added.

As U.P. field deputy, Welling will oversee DNR operations throughout the U.P. She will work from the DNR's Marquette Operations Service Center.