Gretchen Gorecki is the Natural Resource Manager at the Virginia Department of Conservation’s Division of State Parks. She implements resource management activities including invasive species management, native species habitat restoration, prescribed burning, sustainable trail work, policy development, and regulatory compliance. Gretchen was previously an environmental consultant primarily for federal clients, where she focused on natural resource program management, strategic partnership initiatives, encroachment strategies, and geospatial analyses. Gretchen completed her MSc in Biodiversity, Wildlife, and Ecosystem Health from the University of Edinburgh. She obtained her BS in Environmental Science and Geography and received a GISc Certificate from the University of Mary Washington. She is a certified GIS Professional, completed fellowships with the Environmental Leadership Program and the Virginia Natural Resources Leadership Institute, and is a member of the UMW Eagle Pipe Band. Gretchen enjoys hiking, backpacking, stand up paddle boarding, rock climbing, and spending time at her backyard farm.