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Snohomish County Executive Dave Somers has appointed Josh Dugan as director of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Rob Sprague as human resources director.
The Snohomish County Council confirmed Dugan’s appointment May 13 and Sprague’s appointment June 10.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) oversees parks and recreation, surface water management, agriculture, and energy and sustainability programs.
Dugan joined Snohomish County in 2015 as a division manager in Planning and Development Services and most recently served as executive operations officer.
During his tenure, he helped lead several major initiatives, including the launch of commercial air service at Paine Field, the Snohomish County Courthouse renovation and expansion project, the integration of the Snohomish County Health Department into county government, the expansion of Sound Transit service and efforts to improve broadband access in underserved communities.
Before joining the county, Dugan served nearly 30 years in the U.S. Navy, retiring as command master chief at Naval Station Everett.
“Josh brings his impressive experience, work ethic and knowledge of the community to a department that is integral to why people love Snohomish County,” Somers said. “He’s at the head of a great DCNR team that is committed to preserving the health of our environment and natural spaces while providing opportunities for the public to explore and enjoy them.”
Created in 2020, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources works to protect water quality, preserve farmland and open space, reduce flooding impacts, advance climate resilience efforts and provide recreational opportunities throughout Snohomish County. Dugan succeeds former director Tom Teigen, who was promoted to an executive director position earlier this year.
“I am excited to join DCNR — a department I have admired for its passionate staff and can-do attitude,” Dugan said. “I look forward to working with our dedicated staff, community partners, tribes, farmers, environmental organizations, and residents to protect Snohomish County’s natural resources while enhancing quality of life for current and future generations.”
Sprague has served as deputy director of the Human Resources Department for more than four years and has worked for Snohomish County for 13 years. He was hired as the County’s first in-house labor negotiator and previously served as chief labor contract negotiator for Snohomish County and King County.
County officials said Sprague played a key role in integrating the Health Department into county government, advancing a countywide classification and compensation study, and improving human resources processes.
“Rob for years has been an integral part of the leadership in a caring and dedicated human resources team,” Somers said. “His expertise and his proactive and thoughtful approach will help ensure Snohomish County remains a wonderful and inclusive place to work.”
The Human Resources Department oversees hiring, training, compensation, employee relations, wellness programs and benefits for more than 3,000 county employees. Sprague replaces Rhea Reynolds, who announced her departure earlier this spring.
“It’s my honor to accept the appointment to the HR director position in Snohomish County,” Sprague said. “I’m amazed at the professional staff we have in this department and their commitment to making the experience for employees with the County the absolute best. I look forward to continuing to lead that effort to truly make Snohomish County an employer of choice.”
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