Melissa Hovey named monument manager of Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument

The Bureau of Land Management California and the Mendocino National Forest announce the selection of Melissa Hovey as the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument manager.

Her career in public service and natural resources spans over 30 years. She now embraces the challenge of overseeing management of more than 330,780 acres of public land in a region stretching from Napa County to the mountains of the Mendocino National Forest north of Clear Lake.

“The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument encompasses some of the most spectacular public lands in the country and I am excited to take on this new role. I am looking forward to working with the communities of Northern California, our partners, and the visitors to ensure this special place is available for the use and enjoyment of current and future generations,” Hovey says.

She has a strong background in natural resource programs and project management for the BLM in Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming as well as at the BLM headquarters. She was instrumental in developing the agency's first Report on Annual Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Climate Trends and several adaptive management plans for air resources. She also has experience managing and developing environmental programs for municipal and state governments and assisting industrial clients with environmental permitting.

“We are fortunate to have Melissa's experience, wisdom and collaborative leadership style as part of

BLM California,” says BLM Central California District Manager Chris Heppe. “Her extensive knowledge of natural resource management and community partnerships will benefit the monument's scenic and biologically diverse landscapes.”

“I am extremely pleased to welcome Melissa to the region,” says Mendocino National Forest Supervisor Wade Mcmaster. “I share her excitement for the opportunities here and gratitude for the monument and the collaboration among our agencies and partners.”

Originally from the Boston area, Hovey has been “out west” for over 20 years. She has a Bachelor's and Master's of Science degrees in civil and environmental engineering, and enjoys hiking, camping, skiing, and spending time with her family including two border collie puppies.