Central ND News

Senator John Hoeven introduced Dr. Andrea Travnicek at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing concerning her nomination as Assistant Secretary for Water and Science at the U.S. Department of the Interior. Hoeven discussed Travnicek's experience, particularly in relation to agriculture, energy, and water development in North Dakota.

Hoeven highlighted the need for reliable water supplies in North Dakota's communities and is working to advance legislation to increase authorizations under the Dakota Water Resources Act. This would increase funding from the Municipal, Rural, and Industrial program, aiding projects such as the Northwest Area Water Supply and the Eastern North Dakota Alternate Water Supply.

In energy, Hoeven emphasized updating the U.S. Geological Survey's surveys on oil and gas reserves to reflect new technologies and practices. He advocated maximizing access to energy resources on federal lands and referenced the North Dakota Trust Lands Completion Act, which aims to reduce land fragmentation and promote resource development.

Hoeven remarked, “Dr. Travnicek has a stellar background for the position of Assistant Secretary for Water and Science. Not only does she have a depth of technical knowledge, but she has a record of collaboration across all levels of government, with tribes and private stakeholders.” He also underscored Travnicek's role in overseeing the USGS as crucial for unlocking U.S. energy potential.

Dr. Travnicek holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resources Management/Communication from North Dakota State University. In President Trump’s first term, she was a deputy assistant secretary at Interior and recently served as Director of the North Dakota Department of Water Resources. Hoeven, as governor, appointed her as a senior policy advisor after her tenure with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Sacramento, California.