The Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation Staff

. Banner Image by Steve Gibbs

Staff

Administration • Education • Stewardship • Conservation Science

The staff of the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation are indispensable to the organization's mission and sustainability. Through their expertise and dedication, they play a vital role in managing and conserving the Laguna de Santa Rosa's diverse ecosystem. From scientific research and habitat restoration to community education and advocacy, the staff ensures that the foundation's goals of environmental stewardship and wildlife conservation are effectively pursued. Their efforts not only preserve this critical wetlands complex but also inspire others to appreciate and protect this invaluable natural resource for future generations.

Anne Morkill, Executive Director
she/her
xt. 103, Email
Anne joined the Laguna Foundation in March 2020 and brings more than three decades of experience in wildlife conservation. She spent 24 years as a wildlife biologist and refuge manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Wildlife Refuge System, working in Colorado, Alaska, Florida, and California. She also served for six years as a wildlife biologist with the Bureau of Land Management in Alaska. Prior to joining the Foundation, Anne managed the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex for eight years, overseeing seven National Wildlife Refuges in the San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas, as well as the Farallon Islands.

As Executive Director and a member of the Laguna Foundation’s Leadership Team, Anne provides overall strategic direction for the organization and works closely with the Board of Directors and staff to advance the Foundation’s mission. She serves as the Foundation’s chief ambassador, building partnerships with agencies, funders, landowners, and community organizations, and representing the Foundation to policymakers, advisory bodies, and the public.

Originally from Miami, Florida, Anne earned a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Biology from Colorado State University and a Master of Science in Zoology from the University of Wyoming. She is passionate about restoring native habitats and conserving imperiled wildlife by promoting science-based climate adaptation, fostering collaborative partnerships, and connecting people to nature.

Anne lives in Sebastopol with her husband, Harry. In their free time, they enjoy sailing, bicycling, traveling, and exploring the diverse natural, historical, and culinary offerings of Northern California.

Administration Staff

Adrienne Gause, SHRM-CP, Director of Administration
she/her
xt. 107, Email
Adrienne’s journey with the Laguna Foundation began as an intern and transitioned to a staff member in July 2013 after graduating from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies. She now serves as Director of Administration and is a member of the Foundation’s Leadership Team, where she plays a key role in organizational strategy, operations, and long-term planning.

In her role, Adrienne oversees core administrative functions including human resources and organizational systems, helping to ensure that the Foundation’s programs and staff are well supported and aligned with its mission. She works closely with leadership and staff across departments to strengthen internal processes, support a positive workplace culture, and promote operational efficiency. In 2020, she earned the SHRM-CP designation from the Society for Human Resource Management. Her professional background includes work with local businesses and nonprofit organizations in fundraising, advertising, graphic design, project management, accounting, and human resources.

Sierra Castillo, Development Program Manager
she/her
xt. 109, Email
Sierra is a Sebastopol native whose close proximity to the Laguna instilled a great appreciation for wildlife and open space. Her background includes fund development, marketing, event planning, beekeeping, and farming. Sierra also owns and operates Pollen & Fox Flower Farm, a small-scale flower farm dedicated to supporting pollinator health. Sierra is pleased to be part of the Laguna Foundation and to support a mission that resonates deeply with her.

Heather Baggett, Administrative Coordinator
she/her
xt. 112, Email
Heather graduated from Sonoma State University with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies, with a concentration in Conservation and Restoration and a minor in Biology. Her background includes international and wine country tourism, as well as experience working as a safari tour guide for a local wildlife preserve.

She enjoys traveling, gardening, preserving food, and hiking with her dog. Heather is excited to join a team of like-minded individuals where she can pursue her passion for working with a local conservation organization.

[ top ]
Education Programs Staff

Christine Fontaine, Director of Education
she/her
xt. 102, Email
Christine has been volunteering and working in the environmental education field since 1995 and joined the Laguna Foundation in 2007 as Education Director. She provides strategic leadership for the Foundation’s education, outreach, and community engagement efforts, shaping programs that connect people of all ages with the Laguna watershed and inspire stewardship of local ecosystems.

As Education Director and a member of the Laguna Foundation’s Leadership Team, Chris leads the development and implementation of a wide range of education programs, including the Learning Laguna program for elementary students, community education offerings, and seasonal youth programs. She is the creator and director of Camp Tule and fosters meaningful learning experiences rooted in wetlands and watershed ecology, social-emotional development, and creative expression. She also directs volunteer education programs, training and supporting community members who serve as environmental educators and ambassadors for the Foundation.

Christine holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Sonoma State University and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Dominican University. She also brings a background in business administration and volunteer management, along with extensive experience as a naturalist, educator, and former Director of Point Reyes Field Seminars. In recognition of her long-standing contributions to environmental education and conservation, she was honored in 2024 with the Ernestine I. Smith Environmentalist of the Year Award from the Sonoma County Conservation Council.

Maggie Hart, Outreach Manager
she/her
xt. 100, Email
Maggie joined the Foundation staff in July 2005. Her background in nonprofit administration includes working for the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, San Francisco's Friends of the Urban Forest, and Giant Steps Therapeutic Equestrian Center. Maggie holds an undergraduate degree in Ecology from Evergreen State University.

Ashley Carreño, Education Coordinator
she/her
xt. 108, Email
Ashley developed a love for nature at an early age, spending her childhood playing sports, climbing trees, and exploring the outdoors. In high school, she completed a volunteer internship at Pepperwood Preserve, which sparked her interest in environmental studies and helped her realize she could pursue a career centered on what she loves most.

While attending Chico State University, Ashley participated in the Associated Students Sustainability Education and Outreach team and worked in the Geology Department as a Fossil Data Analyst. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, with a focus on Energy and Earth Resources. After graduation, Ashley returned home and joined the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation’s Education Department. She enjoys working with children and strongly believes they are the future Green Generation.

In her free time, Ashley enjoys hiking, traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with loved ones. “I strive to help children, families, and Spanish-speaking communities reconnect with nature and fully appreciate its beauty. I hope to inspire both kids and adults through my enthusiasm for our tierra.”

Sofia Chavez, Environmental Education Assistant
she/her
Email
Sofia joined the Education team in 2025 after working at Camp Tule as a camp counselor that summer. She has lived in Sonoma County all her life, and is currently a student at Santa Rosa Junior College, pursuing a degree in Environmental Economics and Policy. In high school, she volunteered at Pepperwood Preserve, which provided her with hands-on restoration experience. She has always loved the outdoors, enjoys camping and going on hikes, and is passionate about helping kids learn about the natural world around them.

[ top ]

Stewarship Programs Staff

Brent Reed, Stewardship Director
he/him
xt. 101, Email
Brent’s professional connection to ecological restoration in the Laguna watershed began in 1989, when he worked on the Kelly Farm Demonstration Wetlands while completing his Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Management at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. After earning his degree, he returned to Sonoma County in 1995 and has since spent decades supervising, designing, and working in all facets of ecological restoration throughout Northern California. His experience includes work as a Restoration Specialist with Circuit Rider Productions and as an independent contractor, with a strong focus on watershed restoration, native habitats, and vernal pool ecosystems. Prior to joining the Laguna Foundation in November 2011, Brent collaborated on numerous restoration projects and ongoing vernal pool monitoring efforts in the Laguna watershed, often in partnership with the Foundation.

Brent provides strategic direction for the Foundation’s land stewardship and restoration efforts. Brent brings deep technical expertise to his role as Stewardship Director, overseeing stewardship staff and field operations, and working closely with other program leaders to ensure effective coordination of personnel, equipment, and resources. As a member of the Laguna Foundation’s Leadership Team, Brent plays a central role in advancing restoration, stewardship, and public engagement throughout the Laguna watershed.

Ayla Mills, Nursery and Seed Program Manager
she/her
xt. 114, Email
Ayla joined the staff in August 2021. She earned a Master of Science in Biology from Chico State University, with a focus on botany, and brings more than ten years of experience in the habitat restoration field. Prior to joining the Foundation, Ayla worked at Floral Native Nursery and managed nursery operations at Central Coast Wilds and the Sonoma Ecology Center’s native plant nursery. She has also worked as a botanical consultant, restoration technician, and teacher.

Ayla has participated in California Native Plant Society conferences and Jepson Herbarium workshops, and she is passionate about conserving California’s native plant diversity.

Elias Lopez, Stewardship Project Manager
he/him
xt. 116, Email
Elias began his journey with the Laguna Foundation as a restoration intern in December 2015. While interning, he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies and Planning at Sonoma State University. He later earned a Master of Science in Ecology and Sustainability from CSU Stanislaus in 2018.

Before returning to the Laguna Foundation as Restoration Field Supervisor, Elias worked at LandPaths as a Bilingual Stewardship Specialist, where he stewarded ecological preserves and helped connect people to the land. He is inspired to continue protecting and restoring critical habitats while educating the next generation of environmental stewards.

Annelise Ockenden, Stewardship Technician
she/her
Email
Annelise grew up in Sonoma County and developed an early interest in the plants and animals around her. Her career in environmental stewardship began at Santa Rosa Junior College, where she studied Natural Resources and participated in the Wildfire Resiliency Program. She later worked in the Natural Resources Division of Sonoma County Regional Parks, where she gained hands-on experience in land management practices such as invasive species removal, native plant monitoring, fuels management for wildfire safety, and prescribed burning.

In her free time, Annelise enjoys birding, camping in national forests, and searching for rare plants throughout California. She is excited to work closely with native plants and contribute to the restoration of the Laguna de Santa Rosa Watershed..

Chloe Winsemius, Stewardship Technician
she/her
Email
Chloe previously worked as an Environmental Education Assistant at the Laguna Foundation and continues to serve as a Naturalist for Camp Tule during the summer months. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Geography, and Management, with minors in Biology and Sustainability, from Sonoma State University.

Chloe’s background includes ecological restoration and stewardship in the Laguna Watershed, environmental education, and wildlife research focused on amphibians in creek systems and vernal pools. She is dedicated to protecting the Laguna’s biodiverse ecosystems and connecting people to nature.

In her free time, Chloe enjoys cooking, tending her garden, and exploring the outdoors.

[ top ]

Conservation Science Programs Staff

Sarah Gordon, Conservation Science Director
she/her
xt. 105, Email
Sarah joined the Laguna Foundation staff in February 2017 as a member of the Conservation Science team, after many years of involvement with the Foundation as a collaborating scientist and engaged community member. Having grown up in Sebastopol, she has a deep appreciation for the biodiversity of Sonoma County and is grateful for the opportunity to give back to the landscapes that shaped her early connection to nature.

Sarah’s introduction to vernal pools came through a Laguna Foundation led field trip, sparking a lifelong passion for these unique ecosystems. A plant ecologist by training, she earned a Master of Science degree from Sonoma State University in 2006, specializing in plant population and conservation genetics. She subsequently worked as a lecturer, researcher, and ecological consultant, with expertise in botany, rare plants, and vernal pool ecosystems, primarily in Sonoma County.

As Conservation Science Director and a member of the Laguna Foundation’s Leadership Team, Sarah provides strategic direction for the Foundation’s conservation science work across the watershed. She leads the development and implementation of the Conservation Science Program to align with organizational priorities and collaborates with fellow directors on strategic planning, budgeting, building partnerships with landowners and agencies, and ensuring that conservation initiatives are grounded in strong scientific practice. Sarah helps advance conservation, restoration, and public engagement efforts that protect the Laguna watershed’s unique and endemic habitats, including vernal pools, forested marshes, and oak woodlands.

Asa Voight, Conservation Science Project Manager
he/him
xt. 115, Email
Asa Voight, a Certified Master Naturalist, has worked seasonally with the Laguna Foundation since 2015, restoring and maintaining native habitats. His strong foundation in working with native flora and fauna began during seven years as a sustainable farmer along the Russian River riparian zone.

Asa’s experience in natural resource management includes serving as a Crew Supervisor with Conservation Corps North Bay, where he led numerous resource conservation projects across a variety of local ecosystems. He is thrilled to continue his work in ecological restoration as a full-time Preserve Manager with the Laguna Foundation, helping to restore and maintain this Wetland of International Importance.

Danielle Carney, Conservation Science Project Manager
she/they
xt. 117, Email
Danielle began her career in Natural Resource Management with Sonoma County Regional Parks. During her five years with Parks, she gained experience in land management practices such as invasive species monitoring and removal, fuels management, and ecological restoration. She holds a certificate in Natural Resource Management from Santa Rosa Junior College, as well as a UC California Naturalist certificate. Danielle also earned a Bachelor of Science in Web Design and Development, with a minor in Computer Science, from CSU Monterey Bay.

In her free time, Danielle enjoys native plant gardening, mushroom foraging, and spending time outdoors with her wife and dog.

[ top ]

	Christine Fontaine, Director of Education she/her xt. 102, Email Christine has been volunteering and working in the environmental education field since 1995 and joined the Laguna Foundation in 2007 as Education Director. She provides strategic leadership for the Foundation’s education, outreach, and community engagement efforts, shaping programs that connect people of all ages with the Laguna watershed and inspire stewardship of local ecosystems. As Education Director and a member of the Laguna Foundation’s Leadership Team, Chris leads the development and implementation of a wide range of education programs, including the Learning Laguna program for elementary students, community education offerings, and seasonal youth programs. She is the creator and director of Camp Tule and fosters meaningful learning experiences rooted in wetlands and watershed ecology, social-emotional development, and creative expression. She also directs volunteer education programs, training and supporting community members who serve as environmental educators and ambassadors for the Foundation. Christine holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Sonoma State University and a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential from Dominican University. She also brings a background in business administration and volunteer management, along with extensive experience as a naturalist, educator, and former Director of Point Reyes Field Seminars. In recognition of her long-standing contributions to environmental education and conservation, she was honored in 2024 with the Ernestine I. Smith Environmentalist of the Year Award from the Sonoma County Conservation Council.
	Maggie Hart, Outreach Manager she/her xt. 100, Email Maggie joined the Foundation staff in July 2005. Her background in nonprofit administration includes working for the Occidental Arts and Ecology Center, San Francisco's Friends of the Urban Forest, and Giant Steps Therapeutic Equestrian Center. Maggie holds an undergraduate degree in Ecology from Evergreen State University.
	Ashley Carreño, Education Coordinator she/her xt. 108, Email Ashley developed a love for nature at an early age, spending her childhood playing sports, climbing trees, and exploring the outdoors. In high school, she completed a volunteer internship at Pepperwood Preserve, which sparked her interest in environmental studies and helped her realize she could pursue a career centered on what she loves most. While attending Chico State University, Ashley participated in the Associated Students Sustainability Education and Outreach team and worked in the Geology Department as a Fossil Data Analyst. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, with a focus on Energy and Earth Resources. After graduation, Ashley returned home and joined the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation’s Education Department. She enjoys working with children and strongly believes they are the future Green Generation. In her free time, Ashley enjoys hiking, traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with loved ones. “I strive to help children, families, and Spanish-speaking communities reconnect with nature and fully appreciate its beauty. I hope to inspire both kids and adults through my enthusiasm for our tierra.”
	Sofia Chavez, Environmental Education Assistant she/her Email Sofia joined the Education team in 2025 after working at Camp Tule as a camp counselor that summer. She has lived in Sonoma County all her life, and is currently a student at Santa Rosa Junior College, pursuing a degree in Environmental Economics and Policy. In high school, she volunteered at Pepperwood Preserve, which provided her with hands-on restoration experience. She has always loved the outdoors, enjoys camping and going on hikes, and is passionate about helping kids learn about the natural world around them.

	Brent Reed, Stewardship Director he/him xt. 101, Email Brent’s professional connection to ecological restoration in the Laguna watershed began in 1989, when he worked on the Kelly Farm Demonstration Wetlands while completing his Bachelor of Science in Natural Resources Management at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. After earning his degree, he returned to Sonoma County in 1995 and has since spent decades supervising, designing, and working in all facets of ecological restoration throughout Northern California. His experience includes work as a Restoration Specialist with Circuit Rider Productions and as an independent contractor, with a strong focus on watershed restoration, native habitats, and vernal pool ecosystems. Prior to joining the Laguna Foundation in November 2011, Brent collaborated on numerous restoration projects and ongoing vernal pool monitoring efforts in the Laguna watershed, often in partnership with the Foundation. Brent provides strategic direction for the Foundation’s land stewardship and restoration efforts. Brent brings deep technical expertise to his role as Stewardship Director, overseeing stewardship staff and field operations, and working closely with other program leaders to ensure effective coordination of personnel, equipment, and resources. As a member of the Laguna Foundation’s Leadership Team, Brent plays a central role in advancing restoration, stewardship, and public engagement throughout the Laguna watershed.
	Ayla Mills, Nursery and Seed Program Manager she/her xt. 114, Email Ayla joined the staff in August 2021. She earned a Master of Science in Biology from Chico State University, with a focus on botany, and brings more than ten years of experience in the habitat restoration field. Prior to joining the Foundation, Ayla worked at Floral Native Nursery and managed nursery operations at Central Coast Wilds and the Sonoma Ecology Center’s native plant nursery. She has also worked as a botanical consultant, restoration technician, and teacher. Ayla has participated in California Native Plant Society conferences and Jepson Herbarium workshops, and she is passionate about conserving California’s native plant diversity.
	Elias Lopez, Stewardship Project Manager he/him xt. 116, Email Elias began his journey with the Laguna Foundation as a restoration intern in December 2015. While interning, he completed a Bachelor of Arts in Biology with a minor in Environmental Studies and Planning at Sonoma State University. He later earned a Master of Science in Ecology and Sustainability from CSU Stanislaus in 2018. Before returning to the Laguna Foundation as Restoration Field Supervisor, Elias worked at LandPaths as a Bilingual Stewardship Specialist, where he stewarded ecological preserves and helped connect people to the land. He is inspired to continue protecting and restoring critical habitats while educating the next generation of environmental stewards.
	Annelise Ockenden, Stewardship Technician she/her Email Annelise grew up in Sonoma County and developed an early interest in the plants and animals around her. Her career in environmental stewardship began at Santa Rosa Junior College, where she studied Natural Resources and participated in the Wildfire Resiliency Program. She later worked in the Natural Resources Division of Sonoma County Regional Parks, where she gained hands-on experience in land management practices such as invasive species removal, native plant monitoring, fuels management for wildfire safety, and prescribed burning. In her free time, Annelise enjoys birding, camping in national forests, and searching for rare plants throughout California. She is excited to work closely with native plants and contribute to the restoration of the Laguna de Santa Rosa Watershed..
	Chloe Winsemius, Stewardship Technician she/her Email Chloe previously worked as an Environmental Education Assistant at the Laguna Foundation and continues to serve as a Naturalist for Camp Tule during the summer months. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science, Geography, and Management, with minors in Biology and Sustainability, from Sonoma State University. Chloe’s background includes ecological restoration and stewardship in the Laguna Watershed, environmental education, and wildlife research focused on amphibians in creek systems and vernal pools. She is dedicated to protecting the Laguna’s biodiverse ecosystems and connecting people to nature. In her free time, Chloe enjoys cooking, tending her garden, and exploring the outdoors.