Amanda Leiter has served on Rock Creek Conservancy’s Board of Directors for more than three years, bringing a background in environmental law and a longstanding commitment to environmental stewardship. Her leadership experience includes almost a decade on the board of American Rivers and stints in both the Obama and the Biden Administrations.  

Throughout her career, Amanda has demonstrated a consistent dedication to protecting the natural world. From implementing the nation's environmental laws during her time at the Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Interior to educating and mentoring the next generation of environmental lawyers, her work reflects a deep and enduring commitment to safeguarding our air, water, and land.

We were able to ask Amanda a few key questions as we look forward to her leadership as Board President.

What’s your favorite place in Rock Creek Park and why?

I grew up in DC and learned to ride my bike on the closed road between Peirce Mill and the police station, and that remains my favorite stretch of the park, though I now add the trail on the West side of the creek along that same stretch as well as the trail in Reservation 630 to my regular walking route. During Covid, I also spent a lot of time near Parking Lot 8, hiking the trails along Pinehurst Creek and up to Boundary Bridge.

How did your passion for the environment in Rock Creek Park develop?

As noted, I grew up in DC, and I think I've spent some portion of almost every weekend in the park ever since (minus the 15 years I lived away from the City). I love that there are still parts I don't know well!

What drew you to joining Rock Creek Conservancy’s board of directors?

My husband had been on the Board, and I heard about the great things the Conservancy was doing to help the Park Service manage the park, keep the watershed and the forest healthy, and expand community support for this wonderful DC oasis. When he rotated off, I offered to maintain our family's involvement by joining in his place.

What do you hope to accomplish in this role?

I'd like to grow the Conservancy's visibility, and in the process broaden the community that uses and loves the park, let people know about the problems facing this and all wild spaces, and help find local solutions to some of those problems.