Heather Wendt joined WACD in 2023 as the new Director of Development and Engagement. She has worked for conservation districts since 1997. Her conservation career began in Maryland, where she grew up. Before joining WACD, Heather spent over 22 years working for both the Benton and Franklin Conservation Districts as their Assistant Manager. Heather is the co-creator of the Heritage Garden Program and co-author of the “Plant Selection Guide, Heritage Gardens of the Columbia River Basin.” She also serves as the Co-Chair of the Columbia Basin Chapter Washington Native Plant Society and the Secretary/Treasurer of the Washington Conservation Society. Heather spends her free time gardening at the Hansen Park Heritage Garden and hiking with her husband throughout the Pacific Northwest. Heather lives in eastern Washington with her husband Greg, daughter Ally, and their mini-Aussie Flynn.