Eli Smith

Growing up in Western North Carolina, Eli enjoyed sauntering through dense rhododendron tunnels, inhaling the intoxicating scent of galax, and following tumbling mountain streams wherever they may lead.  This love of interacting with the living landscape led him to attain his BS in Recreation & Park Management from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC and later, a Master in Environmental Management (MEM) degree with a concentration in Integrative and Public Land Management from Western Colorado University in Gunnison, CO.        

Professionally, Eli has held many positions in the land conservation and stewardship field, including serving with a regional land trust in Western Massachusetts, and directing an ecological restoration program for an environmental advocacy organization in the Elk Mountains of Colorado. Eli is a skilled collaborator in developing and managing on-the-ground projects that address water quality, wildlife habitat, environmental justice, and climate resiliency.   He is committed to building a collaborative future in which every living being may continue to thrive and flourish in resilient landscapes.

In his free time, Eli enjoys exploring the many miles of nearby public lands on foot or bike while encountering wildlife, history, culture, and beauty.  Other hobbies include mailing postcards, collaging, and patronizing Asheville’s rich arts and cultural offerings.