Jake Buxton, Deputy Director, Missouri Department of Natural Resources

Jake Buxton was named deputy director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources in January 2025. 

Jake began his career in state government in 2017, working in the Governor’s Office. He then served as legislative liaison for the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations and, most recently, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). His strong connections with the conservation and natural resources communities in Missouri ultimately led him to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources. Jake also managed several grants for MDC, developing relationships with local governments and non-profits. 

Jake holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Truman State University.