Rick Sprott, who is awaiting confirmation by the state Senate this month to the post of director of the Department of Environmental Quality, made the announcement Wednesday.

"The quality of our air impacts everyone," Heying said. "New tougher regulations to improve the air will require a concerted effort on everyone's part. I look forward to the challenge and working in partnerships with stakeholders to develop strategies on accomplishing these goals."

Heying has been with the state environmental program since 1988, first in the Division of Solid and Hazardous Waste and for the past six years as manager of the Planning Branch for the Division of Air Quality, which develops plans to comply with federal air quality regulations. She also has worked in Nevada as an environmental consultant and regulator.

"Cheryl is an incredibly strong leader whose expertise in air quality issues is recognized throughout the West," said Sprott. "She is highly regarded by DEQ employees and stakeholders in Utah for her work in addressing such issues as mercury contamination, haze, particulate pollution and ozone. The division will shine under her leadership."

The moves follow a decision by DEQ Director Dianne Nielson to become state energy adviser.

fahys@sltrib.com