Prukop Out, Goldstein In at Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources

One of Gov. Bill Richardson's longest serving cabinet secretaries is leaving. The Governor's Office just announced that Joanna Prukop will retire from the Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department on Dec. 31. She's been hired for an executive position with a new national conservation organization called Freedom to Roam.

“Joanna Prukop helped lead New Mexico’s efforts in strengthening environmental protection, conserving natural lands and protecting critical wildlife habitats while supporting energy development,” Richardson said in a news release. “She will be missed, but I wish her well in her new position where she will continue these same efforts on a larger scale.”

Prukop has been secretary of the department since Richardson’s first term began in 2003.

Richardson is appointing Jon Goldstein to replace Prukop. He's been working as deputy secretary at the state Environment Department for two years.

We reporters know Goldstein as a former public information officer for Richardson. His prior experience includes two years covering business, politics and breaking news for the Baltimore Sun’s Web site and two years as a technology reporter with Time magazine in New York.

UPDATE: An earlier version of this post mistakenly said Goldstein has been working at the ENRD for the past two years.