Thiede made similar points three more times during the 75-minute meeting. As part of the reorganization, DNR was compiling analysis of agency activities and required resources, and this information was needed to prepare for budget talks that would start in summer, he said.

At the time, a department spokesman said the plan was to be finished by June 30. Later, officials said it would be done in July or August.

In announcing the much later timetable Tuesday, the DNR was upbeat as it acknowledged that employees had been wondering when the plan would materialize: “It’s natural for questions to arise over the timing and ultimate direction of the project.

“We are pleased to respond that the alignment continues to move forward with additional time being invested to evaluate core functions and potential outcomes prior to implementation.”

Scott Hassett, who was DNR secretary under Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle, said his casual contacts with agency employees indicate that many are worried, if only because details of the reorganization are being shared only among a small handful of political appointees.