Welcome Laura, FMR's new ecologist
FMR is excited to announce the hiring of Laura Domyancich-Lee, FMR’s new ecologist, taking on the position Alex Roth held until he became conservation director earlier this year.
Laura comes to FMR with a background in natural resources, ecological restoration and project management — a perfect combination for her role here at FMR. Laura has special expertise in riparian restoration, something that will help FMR build upon recent streambank restoration projects. Her work at FMR will include managing a full slate of restoration projects, writing natural resource management plans, and working with partners and members of the public to accomplish our goals.
Laura has previously worked with nonprofits and government agencies; most recently, Laura spent almost a decade at the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District, where she served as Planner-Project Manager for the past four years. She brings a wealth of knowledge in botany, restoration methods and community engagement — not to mention a longstanding love of the outdoors.
An Illinois native, Laura has many fond memories of spending time along the Mississippi River, hiking its bluffs and ice skating on its frozen backwaters. After stints in places as far-flung as Georgia and Montana, she has called Minnesota home since 2007.
Laura says, “I am overjoyed to become part of the Friends of the Mississippi River team and look forward to bringing my passions for the river and its watershed to the vital work that FMR contributes to the community.”
Once the snow melts, you’ll find Laura in her backyard garden, hiking and biking metro-area trails and generally spending time outside with family and friends. And if you volunteer with us this year, you might get to meet her!