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Beth Defend
Sr. Environmental Project Manager at Jacobs
Professional Background
Beth Defend is an accomplished senior environmental planner with a wealth of experience that spans over 29 years in the intricate field of environmental documentation. Her extensive career has primarily focused on preparing compliance documentation in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and associated environmental regulations. As a seasoned project manager, Beth has successfully led the completion of twelve Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) and has played a pivotal role in the preparation of more than thirty Environmental Assessments (EAs). Her dedication and expertise have made her a trusted name in the industry, contributing to a multitude of NEPA documents throughout her career.
Beth’s impressive portfolio reflects a deep commitment to environmental planning. Her projects often involve collaboration with multiple stakeholders, including federal, state, and local agencies, as well as environmental organizations and Native American communities. This collaborative approach has allowed her to effectively assess the environmental effects associated with a diverse range of activities, including military operations, renewable energy projects, transmission lines, resource management plans, highways, mining operations, and telecommunications infrastructure.
Beth’s experience in environmental planning has seen her work closely with a broad spectrum of entities, such as the Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service, and various branches of the U.S. Armed Forces including the Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps. Additionally, she has partnered with agencies like the Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, and the Federal Highway Administration, as well as local entities like the Arizona Department of Transportation and Arizona Game and Fish Department. Her extensive network and collaborative projects underscore her capability in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and ensuring comprehensive and informed environmental decision-making.
Education and Achievements
Beth earned her Bachelor of Arts in Technical Journalism from Colorado State University, where she honed her skills in clear and effective communication. This educational background has greatly complemented her professional journey, particularly in the realm of environmental planning where precise documentation is vital. Her strong writing abilities have enabled her to produce exceptional documents that are not only clear and concise but also tailored to resonate with specific audiences.
In addition to her hands-on experience, Beth is also recognized for her extensive public involvement efforts. She has excelled in writing newsletters, press releases, and developing scripts for video and slide presentations aimed at public meetings and hearings. This component of her work ensures that stakeholders, including the general public and concerned communities, are engaged and informed about important environmental initiatives and assessments.
Beth's illustrious career has seen her take on increasingly responsible roles at various reputable organizations, showcasing her adaptability and expertise in environmental planning. Her significant positions include tenure as a Senior Environmental Project Manager at Jacobs, where she is currently applying her strategic leadership in environmental projects. Before her role at Jacobs, she served as a Senior Environmental Planner at NewFields, URS Corporation, Logan Simpson Design, and TEC Inc., demonstrating her sustained commitment to the field and continued alignment with industry leading practices.
Notable Achievements
Beth Defend's career is punctuated with numerous achievements that highlight her expertise and commitment to environmental planning. With twelve completed EISs and over thirty EAs, her influence in the sector is considerable. Beth's ability to manage and oversee multifaceted environmental assessments with several stakeholders is a testament to her leadership skills and profound understanding of environmental regulations. Her contributions extend beyond simple compliance; they encompass the meticulous articulation of environmental effects and the robust engagement of diverse communities in the planning process.
Beth's collaborative work with agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service not only illustrates her technical competencies but also her respect for conservation and responsible resource management. These partnerships have often led to successful project implementation strategies that are environmentally sound and socially responsible, ensuring that the voices of Native American tribes and other stakeholder communities are considered and integrated throughout the planning process.
As a proven communicator, Beth has significantly enhanced public understanding and engagement through her effective dissemination of information. Her contributions in crafting materials for public dissemination, including newsletters and press releases, ensure that complex environmental issues are presented in an accessible manner, fostering a well-informed community dialogue and encouraging active participation in environmental decision-making.
Beth Defend exemplifies the essence of professionalism and dedication to environmental stewardship in her vast career. With her high level of expertise and her commitment to inclusive environmental planning practices, she continues to set standards in her field, fostering a spirit of collaboration and transparency that paves the way for successful environmental governance. As she moves forward in her career, Beth remains a pivotal figure in the realm of environmental planning, influencing policies and practices that shape sustainable futures for communities and ecosystems alike.