Erika is a freshwater ecologist with a PhD in ecology and over a decade of experience in fish ecology and nonnative species management. Her work is driven by a deep appreciation for functioning ecosystems — both for their intrinsic beauty and the vital resources they provide to human and non-human communities. She is thrilled to bring that passion to the Land Trust’s mission of conserving and stewarding Vashon’s wild and working lands.

Prior to joining the board, Erika worked as an environmental consultant throughout the Columbia River Basin on topics ranging from invasive species rapid response and fish passage improvements to water rights transactions. Before that, she built a 20-year career as a U.S. Navy pilot, sharpening the leadership and strategic thinking she now applies to complex environmental challenges.

A Colorado native, Erika traveled the world with the military before choosing the Seattle area to put down roots — literally. She and her husband, Aaron, bought their home on Vashon in 2021, where they and their two young children enjoy restoring the forest, exploring the beach, and playing endless soccer and baseball.