Heather joined Roaring Fork Conservancy in 2010, fueled by a love of western rivers and applied conservation. Since becoming Science and Policy Director in 2014, she has led major watershed efforts including the Comprehensive Lower Fryingpan Assessment, Crystal River Management Plan, Cattle Creek Stream Health Evaluation, Roaring Fork Watershed Regional Water Efficiency Plan, and the Lake Christine Technical Advisory Group. She also helped strengthen RFC’s role on the Colorado Basin Roundtable and partnered with the Town of Carbondale on the Riverfront Park Restoration and Efficiency Project.

Heather holds a biology degree from Providence College and a master’s in environmental science and policy from Johns Hopkins University. Along the way, she worked just about every classic Colorado mountain-town job—ski instructor, whitewater guide, landscaper, waitress, and wilderness ranger—which still shapes her work today, even if she spends more time behind a desk than on the water.

Outside the office, Heather can usually be found chasing her kids on bikes and skis, coaching youth sports, or playing hockey with the Aspen Mother Puckers. Time outdoors keeps her grounded—and reminds her why this work matters.