Underwood Conservation District

Elizabeth Bella, or just “Bella” for short, is an Associate Regional Director for the Alaska Region of the National Park Service, leading natural and cultural resources, subsistence, wilderness, inventory/monitoring, GIS, and compliance divisions. While her day job is mostly administration and operations these days – leading teams in meeting agency missions of environmental and resource conservation and public enjoyment – she still enjoys a deep dive into the complexities around conservation policy and technical work on invasive species and forest management. Bella is a new supervisor on the Underwood Conservation District board, and is most excited for understanding district and state-wide processes, growing community connections, and continuing to develop efficient and strong board practices. Her educational background includes a PhD in conservation policy from UC-Davis, an MS in forestry from the University of Montana, and a dual biology-forestry degree from SUNY-ESF. She loves to get outside with her husband Ryan, son Pirlo, dog Honey, and extended family in the area. In 2025, Bella was elected to her current position as Secretary.