Erika Rivers
Executive Director
With nearly two decades of experience in the field of conservation and outdoor recreation, Erika most recently served as Director of Minnesota State Parks and Trails at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. A proven executive manager, strategist, and innovator, Erika is experienced in leading changes that help individuals, systems, and processes perform more effectively, efficiently, respectfully, and inclusively.
Erika believes that quality of life is improved immeasurably when people spend time outdoors. Outdoor recreation provides important connections to the natural world and is an essential element in fostering healthy communities and the next generation of conservation stewardship.
Education:
B.A. Journalism and Russian Area Studies, College of Liberal Arts: University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Ph.D. Conservation Biology, University of Minnesota Twin Cities
Equity & Diversity Certificate Program, University of Minnesota
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
Affiliations:
National Conservation Leadership Institute, Cohort 8 Fellow
International Society of Conservation Biology
Interests:
Erika enjoys a wide variety of outdoor recreational pursuits, including hiking, camping, wildlife watching, paddling, hunting, and fishing – from our metro parks, rivers, and lakes to our state parks and trails system, to America’s national parks, forests, and wilderness areas.