April 23, 2024
Posted in: News Articles People & Places
Catherine grew up in Santa Rosa and studied environmental science at Sonoma State and UC Santa Barbara. She has worked with Ag + Open Space for 6 years, originally as a Stewardship Technician and currently as a Senior Stewardship Specialist. In her free time Catherine enjoys cooking, hiking and cycling, and spending time with her family.
What’s your favorite Sonoma County place to get outside and why?
My favorite place to get outside is North Sonoma Mountain Regional Park & Open Space Preserve. I grew up in Bennett Valley and I’ll always remember my first visit to the park, taking in views of familiar landmarks from a new perspective.
What’s one fact, statistic, or interesting tidbit about land conservation that you enjoy sharing with others?
I like sharing with people that Ag + Open Space has helped create or expand many of the county’s best parks, and that they can look forward to many new parks opening in the next few years!
What’s your proudest moment working in land conservation and why?
I feel proudest of my work with Ag + Open Space when I drive around the county and see the diverse properties we have protected and that I have helped steward, ranging from agricultural lands to important wildlife habitat including forests, riparian areas, and wetlands to scenic areas throughout the county and more.
What compelled you to pick a career in land conservation?
I actually studied water resources management in both undergrad and grad school, but when I saw the job opportunity with Ag + Open Space I realized working in land conservation could help improve watershed health as well as address other important issues like protecting agricultural land and creating new public access opportunities throughout the county. Having grown up in Sonoma County, I was excited about the idea of joining an organization that helps preserve our amazing open space resources for future generations.
What’s your favorite ice cream flavor and why?
I love a classic mint chocolate chip, especially if it’s made with fresh mint!