Rachel is an environmental specialist with experience in the application of natural and social science, policy, and outreach. She has a background in marine biology and ecology, oceanography, and natural, marine, and coastal resources law, policy, and management. Her education and work experiences have been primarily focused on marine and coastal resources management strategies for natural and human influences, including water quality degradation, coastal hazards, and climate change.

Rachel manages the State of Adaptation program for EcoAdapt and serves as a Content Editor for CAKE; her responsibilities include finding and developing examples of climate change adaptation, building a network of individuals and organizations engaged or interested in adaptation, and assisting with outreach, marketing, and fundraising to support the development of EcoAdapt’s core programs.

Prior to joining EcoAdapt in May 2009, Rachel worked with Washington Sea Grant, the San Juan County Marine Resources Committee, the National Park Service, and MASSPIRG. Her previous work includes examining nearshore processes and functions in Washington State and co-writing a guidance document to assist coastal counties in implementing shoreline management policies. In addition, she has also investigated the environmental implications and economic viability of the marine and coastal recreation and tourism industry in the outer counties of Washington State, the status of coastal water resources in Olympic National Park and Lewis and Clark National Historical Park, projected and actual threats to the marine and coastal environment of the San Juan Archipelago, and the water quality testing standards at public beaches throughout Massachusetts. Rachel earned her undergraduate degree from Smith College in Government and Marine Science, and a Master’s in interdisciplinary marine science and policy from the University of Washington.