Michelle started out with a degree in Natural Resources Management from the University of New Mexico, and worked as a Ranger for the BLM in the Lower Rio Grande Gorge outside of Taos in the early 2000’s. She moved on to local government, with the Town of Silverton, CO, where she learned to navigate regulatory processes and how to build public/private partnerships for maximum collaborative efficiency.

Michelle then served as the Deputy Director for MSI where she led programs and personnel, primarily focused on: 1) Mine remediation and CERCLA actions in the Bonita Peak Mining District with large federal contractors like EPA, BLM and Army Corps of Engineers. 2) Ecological restoration and monitoring across a multi-county region including on the Telluride Valley Floor Conservation Easement, San Juan County wetlands and fens, and the East Mancos River Restoration Project.

This latest chapter of her life is focused on being a licensed Realtor, where she helps families transition in and out of SW Colorado, build equity and leverage their real estate investments to create personal wealth for generations to come. Michelle also serve as the coordinator for the Montelores Coalition, a regional partner to the Colorado outdoor Partnership, where we strive to ensure Colorado’s people and economy thrive because of our healthy lands, water, wildlife, working farms and ranches, and improved hunting, angling and recreation opportunities for all.