Celebrate 75 Years of Conservation with Us!

HomeAboutStaff – Heather Nelson Kent

Heather Nelson Kent

Community Outreach and Engagement Supervisor

Community Outreach & Engagement

Heather joined EMSWCD in 2021, bringing a wealth of experience and strong community connections to the district’s Community Outreach and Engagement team. She also manages the district’s Community Grants Program. Before joining EMSWCD, she led strategic communications, community engagement, and grantmaking at Metro Parks and Nature and the Regional Arts & Culture Council, enhancing public access, building trust, and increasing visibility. Heather collaborates effectively across sectors—including community organizations, government agencies, businesses, and nonprofits—to advance land conservation, sustainable agriculture, habitat protection, and access to nature. Passionate about driving organizational transformation, she champions equitable programs, inclusive practices, and public accountability.

Call me about: Community events, grant opportunities, our grant application process and to brainstorm your ideas and find potential partners.

Ask Me About: Community Events and Outreach, grant opportunities, questions about the grant application process and to brainstorm your ideas and find potential partners.

Discover

Partners in Conservation (PIC) Grants

Past PIC Grant Recipients

Special Projects and Community Events (SPACE) Grants

Past SPACE Grant Recipients