Michelle de Leon

Michelle de Leon is a highly experienced professional in environmental management and recreation, currently serving as the Recreation Program Manager for the USDA Forest Service since March 2024. In this role, Michelle oversees operations, budget, and partnerships for campgrounds and trails across public lands. Previous positions include Program Analyst at the Bureau of Reclamation, supporting WaterSMART programs, and a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Maine, focusing on partnerships with diverse communities. Michelle also has experience with The Nature Conservancy as a Research Intern, leading the development of climate adaptation decision-making tools, and served in various roles at the Bureau of Reclamation, including Natural Resource Specialist. Educational credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Environmental and Sustainability Sciences from Cornell University and a Master of Science in Ecology and Environmental Science from the University of Maine.