How does the CA LCC function?

A full time staff supports efforts to achieve the CA LCC goals. A CA LCC Steering Committee directs staff activities and reports LCC information to a larger audience of CA LCC affiliates made up of research and conservation partners, interested parties, and associated organizations.

Organizational Structure

Steering Committee:

The Steering Committee (pictured above) serves as the executive body for decision-making. The Steering Committee charts the vision, develops a strategic plan and guides the progress of the CA LCC. The CA LCC Charter lists responsibilities and membership requirements for Steering Committee members.

Affiliates:

The Affiliates identifiy priorities for CA LCC Steering Committee consideration and also implement CA LCC products and tools. The Affiliates support the CA LCC Teams development and progress by providing staff and resources. The CA LCC Charter outlines additional responsibilities and requirements for being an Affiliates member.

Teams:

Teams are part of the way CA LCC addresses priority topics. The CA LCC Charter provides information about team membership, roles, and responsibilities. Currently, CA LCC has three teams: Science-Manager Team, Communication Team, and Traditional Ecological Knowledge Team.

Staff:

The CA LCC staff assist the Steering Committee by creating and delivering technical products. The Staff are also responsible for facilitating and assisting the Steering Committee’s subcommittees in pursuit of program goals.

Debra Schlafmann, the CA LCC Coordinator, works closely with the Steering Committee, ensures information is communicated to all members, maintains LCC records, and ensures decisions are implemented. The Coordinator is also the liaison between CA LCC subcommittees and the Steering Committee and maintains close connection with other established LCCs.

Claudia Mengelt, the CA LCC Science Coordinator is responsible for technical subcommittee(s) and coordination of data, information, and availability of data results to CA LCC members and the CA LCC conservation partners. The Science Coordinator works with Science Coordinators from other LCCs to collaborate and coordinate information.

Kat Powelson, the Communication Coordinator, analyzes and enhances effectiveness of communication activities by the CA LCC to our diverse audience. 

Karen Thorne, a research ecologist with the USGS Western Ecological Research Center, works with the CA LCC science coordinator to provide technical support and interprets and translates science for use by natural resource managers. 

Deanne DiPietro and Zhahai Stewart provide data management and sharing support for the LCC including delivery of relevant information to resource managers.

Amber Pairis, the lead for the Climate Science Alliance - South Coast and Strategic Conservation Planning for the South Coast Region of California and Baja. 

Rita S. Howard, the Grants and Agreements Technician, administers Cooperative Agreements and provides logistical and administrative support for the CA LCC.  

Steering Committee Members