Erin Foster West

Erin Foster West is the Water Director at the National Young Farmers Coalition. Erin previously worked as a Management Analyst / Presidential Management Fellow at the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service from August 2015 to August 2017. In this position, they analyzed USDA policies and programs related to local and regional food and provided technical assistance to stakeholders on federal funding for local and regional food systems. Erin also assisted with the design of metrics for agency activities related to small-scale meat production and developed outreach content for brochures, website, blog, social media, and presentations. Prior to their work at the USDA, Erin worked as a Research Assistant at Tufts University from May 2015 to July 2015. In this position, they conducted research on food security and nutrition in developing countries. Erin also worked as a Program Services Coordinator at the Missoula Food Bank from August 2010 to July 2013, where they coordinated food distribution programs and developed partnerships with local organizations. Lastly, they worked as a Swift Center Coordinator at Ecology Project International from September 2008 to August 2010, where they managed environmental education programs in the Amazon Rainforest.

Erin Foster West earned their Master of Science at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University in the field of Agriculture, Food and the Environment. Erin also holds a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies from Macalester College. Erin has also completed a semester abroad in Oman through the School for International Training.