August 30, 2024
SACRAMENTO – The Department of Conservation announces Director David Shabazian will retire effective September 1, 2024.
Throughout his tenure, Shabazian has been a champion for California’s natural and working lands. He brought a fresh perspective to the department’s work and enhanced its ability to coordinate programs that benefited Californians.
“David’s commitment to smart land management and policy has been a cornerstone of his leadership,” said Chief Deputy Director Gabe Tiffany. “Under his guidance, the department has made significant strides in climate readiness, which are critical to California achieving its climate goals.”
Among his notable achievements, he led the transition of the California Geologic Energy Management Division to an organization guided by a new mission of protecting public health and environmental quality, and a focus on increased oversight, enforcement, and purpose.
He also guided the department’s divisions together into a framework that centered on shared goals to improve watershed function, achieve carbon neutrality, reduce risk from hazards, and enhance sustainable economic development.
Shabazian’s advocacy for natural resources has also been reflected in his work with the California Jobs First initiative. This important initiative creates high-quality, accessible jobs and helps build resilience to climate change and other global disruptions impacting the state’s diverse regional economies.
Shabazian will continue on with the Dean’s Advisory Council for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at UC Davis. He was recently appointed by Governor Newsom as a member of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture.
Chief Deputy Director Gabe Tiffany will serve as Acting Director until a replacement is named.
