Michelle has been an AEP member since the 1990’s.
In recent years, Michelle has organized AEP events in Sonoma County regarding tribal consultation and storm water
regulations, organized a panel and presented a paper titled Perspectives in Tribal Consultation at the 2009 State
Conference, is a member of the AEP Emerging Issues Committee, is currently the Vice President of Programs, North Bay.
Michelle considers AEP a valuable resource for all environmental professionals in California and beyond.
Michelle has a BA in Environmental Studies and Planning from Sonoma State University and has been employed with the
Sonoma County since 1990 in three different departments, including the Department of Transportation and Public Works, the
Sonoma County Water Agency, and currently with the Regional Parks Department.
Michelle is the only Environmental Specialist for the Regional Parks Department and her expertise is sought by other
public agencies regarding the preparation of documents pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and
the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), compliance with various regulatory agencies, storm water regulations, and
implementation of tribal consultation requirements.
Michelle has been the Project Manager for several high profile and controversial public projects as well as mundane ones.
In the role as Project Manager, Michelle has successfully conducted the public participation process during both the
planning and environmental document preparation phases, prepared the environmental compliance documents, managed the
environmental consultants, prepared grant and regulatory permit applications, and overseen environmental aspects of
construction inspection.
Michelle’s work emphasizes honest disclosure of the project and its impacts, full discussion regarding the analysis of
impact assessment, and meaningful implementation of adopted mitigation measures within the public process.
Above all else, Michelle believes that communication is the key to building trust, which leads the way towards a
successful public process and project support.
Michelle has also managed many native plant restoration projects including project design, plant selection, organizing
volunteers, planting and field supervision, and monitoring.
Michelle’s love for the natural environment was inspired in childhood, exploring the creeks and open spaces surrounding
her home and during family camping trips and excursions.
She enthusiastically continues to pursue these outdoor activities.
Michelle also enjoys travel, both in and outside the United States.
Michelle has travelled several times to South India and, in 2005, presented a paper regarding environmental policy at a
national environmental conference in Kerala State.
Beyond work and travel, Michelle enjoys spending time with her family, culling her skills with home arts, and is an avid
flamenco dancer.