Board of Directors

CRWC’s Board of Directors has between 7 and 11 members, all of whom volunteer their time to serve our mission. Each Director brings a wealth of experience to help the organization thrive. The Board meets every other month, typically on the second Tuesday of the month.
For more information, contact Elise Weiland, CRWC Executive Director, at [email protected].

Jen Hunter

As President of the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy, Jen Hunter champions environmental conservation with leadership honed at UC Berkeley, where she studied environmental sciences. She also serves as the Resident Director at Hastings Ranch Natural History Reservation, directing conservation projects and educational programs.

Abbie Beane

Abbie Beane, Vice President and Interim Project Coordinator at the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy, has over 15 years of environmental experience. She is the Development Director at Blue Strike Environmental, focusing on sustainability within sports and entertainment. Abbie has led significant recycling and zero-waste programs, including efforts for the Mattress Recycling Council and the California Carpet Stewardship Program. She is a recognized leader in resource recovery, evidenced by her role in the award-winning sustainability initiatives at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Lorin Letendre

Lorin Letendre, a past President and Executive Director of the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy, brings a rich background in environmental advocacy and education. He has taught at three community colleges and held various leadership roles, including executive positions at McGraw-Hill and The Myers-Briggs Company. Lorin has also authored influential books on corporate governance and leadership.

Andy Magnasco

As Treasurer of the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy, Andy Magnasco manages the financial strategies of the organization. He is also the Director of Golf Course Maintenance and Grounds at Carmel Valley Ranch, where he integrates environmental sustainability into his management practices.

Scott Hennessy

Scott Hennessy, a board member at the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy, offers a deep understanding of county planning and environmental restoration. His extensive experience includes directing the Monterey County Planning and Building Department and founding a native plant nursery to aid local restoration efforts. Scott's leadership extends to various conservation groups, including the California Mountain Lion Foundation and the Monterey Peninsula Audubon Society.

Michael Waxer

Michael Waxer contributes his architectural expertise to the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy as a board member and past President. Michael is past chair of the Carmel River Advisory Committee, and currently co-manages a small water utility in Carmel Valley. He is Vice President of Carmel Development Company, where he oversees projects that emphasize sustainable design and construction.

Steffanie Gamecho

Steffanie Gamecho, Executive Director of the Point Lobos Foundation, brings over 20 years of private sector experience in strategy, business development, and marketing to the CRWC board. Passionate about service, problem-solving, and nature, she has recently focused on nonprofit strategy, consulting, and grant writing in environmental conservation. As ParkIT! Project Director, she collaborates with California State Parks. Steffanie holds a B.S. in Advertising from San Jose State University and has served on the Board of Hope, Horses & Kids and the Community Foundation for Monterey County’s Grant Review Subcommittee.

Phyllis Meurer

Phyllis Meurer joined the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy Board in January 2025, bringing extensive experience in water resource management and public service. Her dedication to water issues began during her nine years on the Salinas City Council and continued with her tenure as a Director on the Monterey County Water Resources Agency Board. Phyllis is passionate about educating the public on water issues and fostering cooperative relationships among water agencies and communities across Monterey County, making her a valuable advocate for sustainable water resource management.

John Gaglioti

John Gaglioti actively addresses water supply issues on the Monterey Peninsula as a board member of the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy. He is the founding developer of the California Flats Solar Project and the Dry Lake Wind Project, pioneering sustainable energy solutions in both Monterey County and Arizona. Additionally, John serves as Senior Director of Business Operations at Triple Oak Power, where he focuses on advancing the operational strategies of renewable energy projects, further enriching his leadership and expertise in sustainable development.

Peter Loewy

Peter Loewy brings a wealth of leadership experience to the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy Board, having served as a Global Law Firm Managing Partner, Corporate General Counsel, Corporate CEO, and Law Professor. His diverse professional background spans industries such as legal, agriculture, real estate, venture capital, and hospitality. A Carmel Valley community member and passionate advocate for the environment, Peter combines his expertise with a deep personal commitment to conservation. An avid fitness and sports enthusiast, he brings energy and strategic insight to the CRWC’s mission.