Vermont Association of Conservation Districts Welcomes Michelle Monroe as New Executive Director

Vermont Association of Conservation Districts (VACD) is pleased to announce the appointment of Michelle Monroe as its next Executive Director. VACD support’s the state’s 14 Natural Resources Conservation Districts (NRCDs) in their mission to implement conservation programs, provide technical assistance, and advocate for sustainable land and water management. 

Monroe brings a wealth of experience in public policy, communications, and stakeholder engagement, with deep connections across Vermont’s agricultural and conservation communities. Monroe most recently served as a member of U.S. Senator Peter Welch’s state staff, where she worked closely with Vermont farmers, municipal leaders, and policymakers to shape federal agricultural policy. She also held key roles in the office of U.S. Senator Patrick Leahy. Prior to that, Monroe was a respected journalist covering Vermont’s environmental and agricultural issues for the St. Albans Messenger, where she rose to the position of Executive Editor.

Monroe’s appointment comes at a critical time for Vermont, as the state navigates increasingly complex water quality, climate resilience, and agricultural sustainability issues. “Her deep knowledge of state and federal policy, combined with her strong relationships with Vermont’s conservation districts, farmers, and decision-makers, will strengthen VACD’s ability to advocate for locally led conservation efforts,” shared Linda Corse, VACD’s Board President.

“Conservation districts have been part of Vermont’s – and the nation’s – response to environmental challenges since the Dust Bowl. With our weather increasingly shifting rapidly between drought and excess precipitation, the knowledge and expertise of the conservationists who work at the districts and at VACD are more critical than ever. I am honored to be able to champion their work as VACD’s executive director,” Monroe said. “I am especially grateful to be following in Jill Arace’s footsteps. During her tenure leading VACD, Jill has never lost sight of the farmers and other landowners the districts and VACD serve or the value of the work the districts do, from restoring floodplains to helping farmers improve their soils.”

Monroe succeeds longtime Executive Director Jill Arace, who led VACD through a period of significant growth and impact over the past 14 years. The two will work together for the month of March to ensure a smooth transition.

About Vermont Association of Conservation Districts

Vermont Association of Conservation Districts (VACD) is the non-profit member association of the state’s 14 Natural Resource Conservation Districts (NRCD). VACD and NRCD staff includes over 50 conservation professionals working throughout Vermont to deliver education, technical assistance, and program navigation services, as well as to identify, design, and implement conservation projects. To learn more, visit our website