Melanie Manion

I am a self-motivated, Blue-sky Thinker with 25 years of experience engaging diverse audiences with the natural world to build sustainable human and ecological communities.   I enjoy finding opportunities that help organizations and individuals grow to meet their personal conservation goals.

Cascade Township Parks and Recreation Director                                                                  2023-2024

Cascade Charter Township

Developed the Parks Department as the First Parks Director.

• Developed a prioritized list of acquisition for the protection of the Grand River and other natural-resource based properties in Cascade Township
• Prioritized 10+ years of deferred maintenance to ensure public lands were safe and accessible
• Worked with contractors and the community to create two new township parks in one year
• Launched a volunteer program with over 60 active individuals, numerous groups and weekly workdays within six months of development

Natural Resources Manager                                                                                                          2011-2023

Ottawa County, Parks and Recreation 

Oversaw the natural resources program encompassing over 7,000 acres of West Michigan natural areas, including numerous natural communities. Created and implemented a comprehensive volunteer program with ~300 active volunteers.

• Developed and implemented, with the input of staff and other natural resource professionals, annual and long-term strategic plans for both the natural resources and volunteer program
• Worked as project manager for numerous small and landscape-level restoration projects including, but not limited to, oak savannas, coastal estuaries, and freshwater dune systems
• Developed and managed annual budget 
• Secured qualified, cost-effective contractors through County procedures. Oversaw contractors and consultants to ensure compliance with contract specifications
• Worked with Planning and Operations staff to balance protection of the natural resources with our communities’ recreational needs
• Procured and administered local, state, and federal grants for acquisition and restoration of natural lands
• Developed and implemented an in-house prescribed fire program
• Provided community outreach through media, presentations, and written materials
• Worked synergistically with national, regional and local partners to accomplish shared goals

Stewardship Coordinator                                                                                                                2006 -2011 

Land Conservancy of West Michigan

• Built a network of nonprofits, businesses, and government organizations to launch the West Michigan Cluster of the Stewardship Network 
• Developed and implemented management plans for 13 preserves, including several with federal and state listed species 
• Monitored 75 conservation easements to ensure compliance

Assisted with the process of accreditation with the Land Trust Alliance

Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI

M.S. in Conservation Biology                                                                                                                    2001

Project:  Management of autumn olive (Eleagnus umbellata) at Chippewa Nature Center, Midland MI)

Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI

B.S. in Biology                                                                                                                                   1998

Majors:  Biology and Environmental Studies