A native of St. Louis, Rachel grew up exploring Missouri’s creeks, rivers, and the wild spaces in between. She returned to her hometown in 2016 after spending a decade surfing, sailing, and advocating for clean water in San Diego. While in California, Rachel served as the Finance Director for Nature and Culture International, a global conservation organization, and as the Chief Financial Officer for San Diego Coastkeeper where she discovered the power of citizen-based advocacy and the strength of the Waterkeeper movement.

With a background in finance and tech and a passion for water, Rachel has dedicated her life to water issues. In San Diego she volunteered with the International Rescue Committee educating refugees about water use and conservation during droughts, and volunteered with Outdoor Outreach teaching at-risk youth to surf and be stewards of the oceans. As a Missouri Master Gardener and soon-to-be Master Naturalist, she focuses her efforts on water conservation, rainscaping, urban runoff, and blue green infrastructure.

Rachel also leads River City Outdoors, a nonprofit connecting people to nature and promoting more equitable outdoor access in the St. Louis region.