SALT LAKE CITY, Utah, July 22, 2026 (Gephardt Daily) — Gov. Spencer Cox has appointed Hannah Freeze to serve as Great Salt Lake commissioner.
Freeze succeeds Brian Steed in the position.
“Hannah understands that protecting the Great Salt Lake requires cooperation from people across the basin,” Cox said. “She has earned the trust of agricultural producers, water users, conservation leaders and our state and federal partners. Her experience, practical approach and ability to bring people together will be invaluable as Utah continues this important work.”
Freeze has more than 15 years of experience in conservation work. As deputy commissioner, she collaborated with stakeholders to advance legislation providing additional conservation tools to water users across the Great Salt Lake basin.
“The Great Salt Lake touches every part of Utah’s future, from our economy and our quality of life to the opportunities we leave the next generation,” said President J. Stuart Adams. “The work ahead requires leaders who can think beyond the next season. Hannah has consistently demonstrated the sound judgment, foresight and collaboration this responsibility demands.”
Freeze said she is grateful for the opportunity.
“This work depends on strong relationships with water users, agricultural producers, state and federal agencies and others across the basin. I look forward to continuing those partnerships in this new role.”
Freeze previously worked at the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, where she established and oversaw several conservation programs, including the Agricultural Water Optimization Program.
Great Salt Lake. Photo: Gephardt Daily/Spencer Benedict
