# LightHawk

> Conservation Flying

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## Posts

- [LightHawk Announces 2026 Volunteer Pilot Award Honorees](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/lighthawk-announces-2026-volunteer-pilot-award-honorees/): LightHawk has announced its 2026 Volunteer Pilot Award honorees, recognizing five volunteers whose dedication and generosity help put conservation missions within reach across the country. This year’s honorees demonstrate the skill, flexibility and sustained commitment that make these missions possible.
- [Low Snowpack Threatens Colorado River Water Supplies](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/april-2025-mission-of-the-month-snowpack-affects-millions-along-the-colorado-river/): Snowpack blankets the mountains of Western Colorado, storing water that will feed rivers and watersheds as it melts. Photo: Mark Henle | Pilot: Steve Meyer The snowpack in Colorado is a topic of great interest to the people of Arizona. Why? Because that snowpack is what feeds the Colorado River. The water travels down the
- [Studying Nutrient-Rich Runoff in Florida with Flight](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-march-2026-featured-mission/): When you think of Florida, you picture clear blue water stretching beyond sandy beaches. But from above, a different story is unfolding. Across Florida Bay, sediment plumes and algal blooms are spreading, changing the color, clarity, and health of these waters. Working alongside scientists from Florida International University, LightHawk took to the air to help
- [Twelve Glaciers. Two and a Half Hours.](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/twelve-glaciers-two-and-a-half-hours/): Colorado’s glaciers and perennial snowfields are shrinking. Documenting those changes means reaching remote mountain sites and gathering photographs from many angles, work that once required long hikes across difficult terrain. LightHawk and Colorado State University researchers are using flight to cover that ground more efficiently and test a new approach to measuring the changing ice.
- [Pilot’s View: Above Colorado’s Changing Glaciers](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/pilots-view-above-colorados-changing-glaciers/): Following a year of record-low snowfall, Colorado State University researchers are documenting how the state’s glaciers are changing. To capture the images they need, they returned to the air with LightHawk volunteer pilot Evan Anderman. The researchers combine photographs taken from multiple angles to create detailed models of each glacier’s surface. Before they began flying
- [Tracing the Causes of Algal Blooms in Florida Bay](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/march-2024-mission-of-the-month-aerial-perspective-provides-insight-on-florida-bay-region/): Researchers survey Florida Bay from above, gaining a landscape-scale view of the waterways, mangroves and coastal systems that may be contributing to persistent algal blooms. Photo by Jay Apt/LightHawk. Earlier this year, Florida International University researchers partnered with LightHawk to gain a broader view of Florida Bay and better understand the changes reshaping the ecosystem.
- [Protecting Bull Kelp in the San Juan Archipelago](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/august-2024-mission-of-the-month-preserving-bull-kelp-beds-with-samish-indian-nation/): LightHawk partnered with the Samish Indian Nation on a test flight to prepare for monthly aerial monitoring of bull kelp beds in the San Juan Archipelago. For the Samish Indian Nation, protecting these waters is both a cultural responsibility and a conservation priority. The Tribe combines traditional knowledge with modern science and works alongside state
- [Documenting Colorado’s Changing Wildfire Landscape](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/october-2024-mission-of-the-month/): In early October, a trio of LightHawk volunteer pilots met with a group taking part in the Colorado Wildland Fire Conference in Snowmass, CO. These flights were arranged in partnership with Fire Adapted Colorado, a nonprofit working to build support for wildfire mitigation work in areas closest to communities and critical infrastructure. Their work is
- [Aerial Insight into a Proposed Montana Data Center](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-january-2026-featured-mission/): When LightHawk volunteer pilot and staff member Chris Boyer took off earlier this month, his destination was a small agricultural town in central Montana. Broadview is home to about 150 people – farmers mostly. Their small town is attracting a lot of attention these days. A proposed 5,000-acre AI data center has raised concerns among
- [Pilot View: Flying Over a Proposed Data Center in Montana](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/a-pilots-perspective-flying-over-a-proposed-data-center-in-montana/): Taking off from his home airport in Bozeman, Montana, LightHawk Northern Rockies Program Manager and Volunteer Pilot Chris Boyer pointed his plane east toward the small rural community of Broadview. With the stiff tailwind, the flight took just over an hour. Chris was flying over Broadview to collect imagery of the location of a proposed
- [Aerial Tours Expose Mine Risk to Bitterroot Watershed](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/aerial-tours-expose-mine-risk-to-bitterroot-watershed/): The Bitterroot River winds through a picturesque valley in Western Montana, its meandering path carving a winding streambed across the landscapes and depositing rich soils that have served family farms for generations. The area’s beauty served as the backdrop for the Dutton Ranch in the TV series Yellowstone. The Bitterroot River’s West Fork headwaters have
- [Pilot View: Flying Montana’s Bitterroot Valley](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/flying-montanas-bitterroot-valley/): “Ray Lee is a true professional.” That’s how Northern Rockies Program Manager Chris Boyer described Lee after a recent LightHawk mission through Montana’s Bitterroot Valley. Lee and Boyer teamed up to provide aerial tours of a proposed mine site near the Headwaters of the Bitterroot Valley – a winding waterway that flows through picturesque country featured
- [NOTAM: Special Edition](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-june-2026-san-diego-fly-in/): Bringing LightHawk Volunteer Pilots Together at San Diego Fly-In Written by Jim Becker LightHawk held the first of our 2026 Regional FlyIns in San Diego and it was a smashing success, enjoyed by all who attended. The gathering started Friday May 8th at the Hilton Garden Inn in San Diego. Several pilots flew into nearby
- [Meet Myrtle: One Abalone with a Big Role in Recovery](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/november-2024-mission-of-the-month/): Myrtle is no ordinary LightHawk passenger. She is one of just 10 wild-origin white abalone living in captivity, making her an important part of the effort to save the species. LightHawk volunteer pilot Michael Baum flew Myrtle from Long Beach to UC Davis Bodega Marine Laboratory, where she joined the White Abalone Captive Breeding Program.
- [Capturing a Condor's Story of Survival](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-february-2026-featured-mission/): The return of California condors to Northern California is a story best understood from both the ground and the air. Their vast range stretches across rugged forests, mountains and coastline, connecting landscapes that are difficult to comprehend from any single vantage point. LightHawk recently flew conservation partner Natives Outdoors over Redwood National and State Parks
- [From 1,300 Miles on Foot to One Powerful View from Above](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/from-1300-miles-on-foot-to-one-powerful-view-from-above/): Starting high in the Rocky Mountains, the Colorado River winds south through some of the most dramatic and heavily used landscapes in the American West before reaching toward the delta in Mexico. This summer, ultra-marathon runner Mina Guli has been following that same path on foot. Working with partner Keep the River Running, Guli is
- [Pilot View: Flying to Document Ancient Gardens in Arizona](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-july-2025/): July 2025 Along the Gila River in Arizona exist ancient gardens dating back 1,000 to 1,200 years. From the ground, you may never know the small dirt berms shaping the rolling terrain were once walls dividing sections of these gardens. But from the air, the bigger picture comes into view, you can clearly see the
- [Webinar Recording: King Tide Flights](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/webinar-recording-king-tide-flights/): LightHawk and Surfrider Foundation hosted a webinar in July 2019 to show how we plan to raise awareness about sea level rise during King Tide events, and how your group can participate. King Tides provide a sneak peek into what normal high-tides will look like due to sea level rise in the near future. These
- [LightHawk Transports 15 Gray Wolves to Colorado for Release](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/lighthawk-transports-15-gray-wolves-to-colorado-for-release/): Completed over three flights by a LightHawk volunteer pilot, the mission carried endangered gray wolves and their handlers from British Columbia to Colorado, where Colorado Parks and Wildlife released them into the wild.
- [On The Wing News: Winter 2026](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/on-the-wing-winter-2026/): In this edition of On The Wing, we look at LightHawk's role in the long-term recovery of the Mexican wolf, including collaboration with partners working directly on the ground. The other wildlife mission focuses on aerial monitoring, showing how a small aircraft can provide the perspective needed to understand changing conditions across landscapes and shorelines.
- [A Flight I’ll Never Forget: A Mission of Hope](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/above-beyond-march-2026/): This month’s Above & Beyond features a special perspective from Chief Advancement Officer Joanna Weitzel. The morning began in the quiet stillness of a small airport in Portsmouth. Snow covered the ground, and for this Southerner, it was a chilly morning. My colleague Jonathan Milne and I met one of the pilots, who slid open
- [On The Wing News – Winter 2024](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/on-the-wing-winter-2024/): Solutions from the Sky Romeo November: A LightHawk Story was produced in collaboration with American Rivers and Trout Unlimited. Click HERE if you would like to attend the film festival virtually. Partner Spotlight: Ventanna Wildlife Society The Ventana Wildlife Society has become a strong partner with both Pinnacles National Park and LightHawk. These partnerships have
- [Documenting a Historic Return to a Free-Flowing Klamath River](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/mission-of-the-month-documenting-the-removal-of-dams-on-the-klamath-river/): LightHawk is helping document a historic moment for free-flowing rivers and salmon recovery in the Pacific Northwest. For more than a century, four dams along the Klamath River in southern Oregon and northern California degraded water quality and blocked salmon, steelhead, and Pacific lamprey from reaching more than 400 miles of spawning and rearing habitat.
- [Small Passengers, Big Stakes for Mexican Wolves](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/june-2024-mission-of-the-month/): In early May, LightHawk once again took part in one of North America’s most remarkable species recovery efforts, flying Mexican wolf pups for cross-fostering into wild dens. Mexican wolves came perilously close to disappearing from the wild in the United States and Mexico. Their recovery began with a captive breeding program founded with just seven
- [Bringing Bobwhite Quail Back to Pennsylvania](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/may-2024-mission-of-the-month/): In March, several masked bobwhite quail took an important step toward returning to the wild, traveling flight from Florida to Pennsylvania for release. LightHawl Volunteer pilot Benjamin Cohen, joined by his son Casey, transported the birds in his Beechcraft Bonanza, where Pennsylvania Game Commission officials met them for the final journey to their release site.
- [Flying for the Santa Cruz, One of America’s Most Endangered Rivers](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/april-2024-mission-of-the-month/): The Santa Cruz River cuts through southern Arizona’s desert landscape, where restoration efforts have brought wildlife back even as water scarcity continues to threaten its future. Photo by Julius Schlosburg. LightHawk conservation partner American Rivers recently released their list of the most endangered rivers in the United States. The Santa Cruz River in Arizona was
- [On The Wing News – Spring 2024](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/on-the-wing-spring-2024/): Uncovering the hidden realities of wild places Recently, as I sat on a plane cruising at 30,000 feet above the Earth, I couldn’t help but think about the total solar eclipse people were witnessing below. Although I missed viewing it firsthand, the remarkable images I saw afterward reminded me of nature’s constant ability to amaze
- [Documenting Transmission Line Impact to Arizona’s San Pedro Valley](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/july-2024-mission-of-the-month/): Earlier this month, LightHawk took to the sky with conservation partner Archeology Southwest. The flight aimed to assess the SunZia transmission line and document its impacts on cultural and natural resources. Volunteer pilot Michael Schroeder provided the flight for seven passengers to gain an aerial perspective on the issue. The transmission line construction runs right
- [On The Wing News – Fall 2024](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/on-the-wing-fall-2024/): Watershed Conservation At LightHawk, we know that the future of our watersheds is closely connected to the health of our ecosystems, communities, and cultural heritage. Every flight we take is a step toward safeguarding these precious resources, and we’re proud to be part of the important work happening across the country to protect them. In
- [15 Wolves. Three Flights. One Historic Return to Colorado.](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/featured-mission-january-2025/): An endangered gray wolf looks back after being released into the Colorado backcountry. Photo by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. In early January, LightHawk volunteer pilots once again took to the skies in support of a historic conservation effort, transporting gray wolves to Colorado as part of the state's voter-mandated reintroduction program. For the second time,
- [Pilot View: Flying Gray Wolves to Colorado for a Historic Reintroduction](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-january-2025-featured-mission/): LightHawk CEO Jim Becker helps Colorado Parks and Wildlife staff unload a gray wolf following its flight to Colorado, part of the state’s historic effort to return the species to the wild. Photo by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. A Wolf Transport Mission - The Pilot’s Perspective Mission Planning The mission was to transport 15 gray
- [Water, Lithium and the Future of Utah’s Red Rock Country](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/featured-mission-february-2025-protecting-iconic-landscapes-with-the-aerial-perspective/): Evaporation ponds from potash mining stand in stark contrast to Utah’s red rock landscape, with the La Sal Mountains in the distance. Photo by Cody Perry Technology is a double-edged sword. While it enhances our daily lives and increases productivity, the process of extracting the metals needed for batteries to power our electronics can be
- [On The Wing News – Winter 2025](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/on-the-wing-winter-2025/): Conservation Is About Connection Upcoming Flights Flight in Florida to document drivers of algal blooms Washington flight in support of wolverine recovery Colorado flight to educate law students on natural resources management issues Flight in Idaho to document snow machine use in grizzly habitat California flight to educate new DPC staff on the landscape, agriculture,
- [Pilot View: Flying Utah’s Red Rock Country for Conservation](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/march-2025-notam-featured-mission/): LightHawk partnered with Rig to Flip, a group that produces amazing videos about Western rivers, to fly 7 people to see the potential impact from mine drilling operations next to the Green River near Moab and Arches National Park. The passengers included photographers, Trisha Hedin from the County Commission, and a social media influencer, Western
- [Looking for Loons In All the Frozen Places](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/march-2025-conservation-flyer-featured-mission-looking-for-loons-in-all-the-frozen-places/): Flying over Lake Winnipesaukee in New Hampshire to search for loons stranded by winter ice. From above, LightHawk helped partners scan the frozen lake for birds in distress and identify where rescue efforts might be needed. Photo by Harry Vogel. Life as a loon is filled with challenges. One of the most deadly? Mistaking a
- [Tracking Yosemite’s Elusive Fishers from the Air](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/may-2025-mission-of-the-month-tracking-yosemites-elusive-fishers-from-the-air/): Flying over Yosemite National Park conducting aerial telemetry with park staff to locate a missing endangered fisher. Photo by Joe Medley. When a young fisher known as M19 was released back into Yosemite National Park last year after recovering from injury, biologists outfitted him with a small tracking collar to monitor his movements and survival
- [Pilot View: Searching Frozen Lakes for Stranded Loons](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-featured-mission-aerial-survey-flight-for-stranded-loons/): An early, rapid freeze on Lake Winnipesaukee raised concerns that loons could become trapped by ice before migrating south. A LightHawk survey flight found no stranded birds, a welcome sign that the loons had already moved on to warmer waters. Photo by Harry Vogel. The Issue Loons are built for water, not land. Their legs
- [Pilot View: Searching for Yosemite’s Elusive Fishers](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-june-2025-featured-mission-the-pilots-perspective-tracking-yosemites-elusive-fishers-from-the-air/): TThe search for missing fisher M19 took volunteer pilot Mark Dedon and passenger Joe Medley over Yosemite National Park, with Half Dome rising prominently in the foreground. Photo by Joe Medley. Yosemite’s towering forests are home to one of California’s most elusive carnivores: the Pacific fisher. Once on the brink of disappearance in the Sierra
- [On The Wing News – Spring 2025](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/on-the-wing-spring-2025/): The Power of Perspective At LightHawk, we believe in the power of aviation to advance conservation. Seeing the land from above gives us perspective on what’s happening, what’s at risk, and where we can make the greatest impact. That view helps our partners work smarter, move faster, and make more informed decisions for the places
- [Capturing What Makes Bears Ears Worth Protecting](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/july-2025-mission-of-the-month/): There are currently 138 National Monuments across the United States, managed by the federal government to protect a wide range of natural, historical, and cultural resources. According to the National Parks Conservation Association, these sites include areas of geologic, marine, archaeological, and cultural significance. Since 1906, presidents have used the Antiquities Act to designate national
- [Pilot View: Bears Ears National Monument from Above](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-august-2025-featured-mission/): Nothing beats the aerial perspective for showing the public the majesty of untouched landscapes across the country. One challenge, though, is that it’s hard to get millions of people into a small plane for a low-level flight over those areas. That’s why LightHawk regularly flies photographers! Their ability to capture the beauty of the landscapes
- [Reconnecting a Critical Wildlife Corridor in Ontario](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/august-2025-mission-of-the-month/): From highways to property boundaries, humans are experts at drawing lines across the landscape. But for wildlife, those lines don’t exist, and the consequences can be deadly. That’s why LightHawk and our partners are taking to the skies to show what’s at stake. One of those partners, the Algonquin to Adirondacks (A2A) Collaborative, is working
- [Pilot View: Reconnecting Habitat with Wildlife Overpasses](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-september-2025-featured-mission/): Flying over a section of Highway 401 in southern Ontario where the Algonquin to Adirondacks Collaborative is working to create wildlife overpasses that reconnect habitat and help animals move safely across the landscape. Video by Jess Lax. Flying north of the border, Ontario-based pilot Adam Goldstein recently completed his very first LightHawk flight. Flying over
- [Giving Journalists a New View of Wyoming's Red Desert](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-featured-mission-september-2025/): The Northern Red Desert and Big Sandy Foothills of the Wind River Range in Wyoming are considered some of the most ecologically significant lands in the lower 48 states. They provide habitat for the world’s highest density of sage grouse as well as home to pronghorn, mule deer and other species. These lands also hold
- [Pilot View: Flying Journalists Over Wyoming’s Iconic Landscapes](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-october-2025-featured-mission/): Flying her very first mission for LightHawk, Volunteer Pilot Bronson Daughtry teamed up with fellow pilots Ray Lee and Matthew Machen to give partners from the Wyoming Outdoor Council an aerial tour over Wyoming’s Red Desert landscapes. Before Bronson and the other pilots worked with Northern Rockies Program Manager Chris Boyer to discuss the partner’s
- [Flying to Protect 78,000 Acres in Northwestern Maine](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-featured-mission-october-2025/): Flying above the forests of northwestern Maine in the fall provides a glorious view of the landscape, painted in the reds, yellows and oranges of Autumn. From the air, the aerial perspective captures not just the beauty and majesty of these lands, but why they matter – illustrating the importance of preserving them for future
- [On The Wing News – Fall 2025](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/on-the-wing-fall-2025/): Protecting Waterways With the Aerial Perspective Fresh water. Most of the time, we take it for granted. We turn on the tap, and what is really a precious resource just flows out. We shower, wash the dishes, and water the lawn without thinking much about the shrinking availability of this life-sustaining liquid. But that is
- [Helping an Endangered Quail Take Flight Again](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-featured-mission-november-2025/): There has always been a special place in our hearts for our fellow aviators, and we are not just talking about pilots. LightHawk works with partners across the United States to conserve endangered birds, and for several years we have supported the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the George Miksch Sutton Avian Research Center
- [Pilot View: Two Days. Hundreds of Miles. Flying the Colorado River.](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-november-2025-featured-mission/): The Colorado River is a majestic and essential waterway, flowing from the mountains of Colorado through several western states and into Mexico. Once, it reached the Pacific Ocean; today, the water rarely makes it that far. Water use along the Colorado is a complicated and often controversial topic, especially as millions of people, businesses, and
- [Documenting Critical Habitat for Sandhill Cranes](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-december-2025-featured-mission/): Sandhill Cranes are one of the oldest living bird species, with a fossil record stretching back millions of years. Today, however, their continued success faces growing challenges as urban expansion and climate change reshape the landscapes they depend on. As cities push into rural areas, vital crane habitat disappears—along with the agricultural lands and wetlands
- [Pilot View: Flying West with Endangered Masked Bobwhite Quail](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-featured-mission-december-2025/): When first described by scientists, the masked bobwhite quail thrived across the Southwestern United States and into Central Mexico. By the turn of the century, however, the population began to decline. And by the late 1940s, the birds were believed to be extinct. That changed in 1964, when an Arizona taxidermist followed reports of quail
- [Pilot View: Preserving Pacific Flyway Habitat for Sandhill Cranes](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/notam-featured-mission-january-2026/): There’s one thing for certain when you take to the skies – once you leave the ground, you’ll eventually need to land. That’s not just true for our volunteer pilots. It’s also true for our feathered friends. For Sandhill Cranes flying through Central California, agricultural fields are a vital part of their migratory journey. Photographer
- [Pilot View: California Condors Return to Northern California](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/featured-mission-the-pilots-perspective/): The reintroduction of California condors to parts of Northern California is an interesting story. It’s one that deserves to be told but would not be complete without seeing the land as a condor sees it – from the air. The Yurok Tribe (a LightHawk conservation partner) is one of many indigenous cultures that view the
- [Pilot View: Documenting Port Pollution in Southern California](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/a-pilots-perspective-documenting-emissions-in-southern-california-ports/): Along the coast of Southern California lies the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, a maze of cargo ships, oil tankers, and infrastructure and one of the busiest gateways in the global supply chain. They’re also a source of emissions that contribute to climate change and local air quality impacts. Media partner Capital &
- [Improving Urban Conservation in New Jersey](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-april-2026-featured-mission/): Flying over northern New Jersey isn’t easy. The airspace is complex, but that’s exactly where LightHawk volunteer pilot Mike McNamara flew with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in New Jersey, following the Passaic River through one of the most densely populated regions in the country. New Jersey may be the fourth smallest state in the nation,
- [Pilot View: Collecting Imagery of New Jersey’s Passaic River](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/a-pilots-perspective-collecting-imagery-along-new-jerseys-passaic-river/): Most pilots avoid the airspace around New York City whenever possible. Volunteer pilot Mike McNamara volunteered for it. Partnering with The Nature Conservancy – New Jersey, Mike recently flew staff along the Passaic River to collect imagery and observe the surrounding landscape from above. The mission required navigating some of the busiest and most complex
- [Protecting Maine’s Landscapes and Waterways](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-june-2026-featured-mission/): There's a narrow stretch of water in central Maine called the Serpentine that connects East and North Ponds. From the ground, it looks like nothing more than a channel. From the air, it's something else: a route that wildlife uses to move between waters, and one that invasive species use too. That's the kind of
- [Pilot View: Capturing Aerial Perspective on the Colorado River](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/a-pilots-perspective-capturing-the-aerial-perspective-on-colorado-river-water/): The Colorado River Basin is an area of intense interest this year. Record low snowfall has left the river system with very little water, highlighting the ongoing water crisis in the West. Massive reservoirs like Lake Mead and Lake Powell are far below their average water levels. With increasing demand for flights over the basin,
- [Telling the Story of a River Under Pressure](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-may-2026-featured-mission/): The Colorado River supplies water to nearly 40 million people, supports agriculture across the Southwest, and sustains communities, wildlife, and ecosystems throughout the basin. Yet after decades of drought and growing demand, the river remains under immense pressure. While strong snowpack years in 2024 and 2025 helped stabilize conditions at Lake Powell and Lake Mead,
- [Conservation FLYer September, 2019: Saving A River](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-saving-a-river/): It's been a productive start to Autumn at LightHawk and we're so excited to celebrate all we've done in 40 years at the upcoming Annual Meeting and Fly-In. Be sure to read all the way to the bottom of this month's FLYer- there's some press stories we're pretty proud of! LightHawk Hats, Jackets and Shirts! NEW- We
- [Conservation FLYer October, 2019: First Class Salmon Passengers](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-first-class-salmon-passengers/): A huge thanks to everyone who was able to celebrate LightHawk's 40th Anniversary in Santa Fe at the Annual Meeting and Fly-In earlier this month! We had probably the best food in the history of Fly-Ins and some of the most engaging talks by pilots and conservation partners. Join us next year in Washington, D.C.
- [Conservation FLYer August, 2019: Fracking Pipelines](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-fracking-pipelines/): Summer is winding down, but not our important conservation work! LightHawk Hats, Jackets and Shirts! NEW- We now have a store where you can show your LightHawk pride! Please make orders by September 22 if you'd like to pick them up at the Annual Meeting in Santa Fe. Visit the Store Paper Airplane Contest: Did you hear?
- [Conservation FLYer November, 2019: Water in the West](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-water-in-the-west/): As Thanksgiving approaches, we have a lot to be thankful for at LightHawk. Thank you to our donors, partners and supporters for championing LightHawk's mission of conservation. We wouldn't be LightHawk without you! Endangered California condors are thankful that they are not the big bird on the menu this week. Here's a video of a recent LightHawk
- [Conservation FLYer December, 2019: Monkey Business](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-monkey-business/): It's been a stellar 2019 at LightHawk, celebrating 40 years of conservation flying. As we look ahead to 2020, we're excited to continue our important work with your help! The video below is just one of the critical conservation issues LightHawk addressed this year. In partnership with the Wild Salmon Center, we flew to demonstrate the
- [Conservation FLYer January, 2020: What Happens When You Let Loose....](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-what-happens-when-you-let-loose/): We're starting LightHawk's 5th decade of existence strong - planning our conservation work for the year ahead and providing important flights for wildlife, river protection, changing oceans, and vital landscapes. Thank you to everyone who supported us this past holiday season. We're putting your gifts to good use! LightHawk Hats, Jackets and Shirts! NEW- We now have
- [Soaring Higher: Oil spills, endangered wolves, the power of awe](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/soaring-higher-oil-spills-endangered-wolves-the-power-of-awe/): When Oil Spills, We’re First on the Scene When a section of the Keystone pipeline burst spilling more than 210,000 gallons of oil onto the South Dakota prairie, LightHawk sprang into action. Working hand-in-hand with our national partner the Waterkeeper Alliance and tribal leaders from Dakotas for America, we assembled flights over the spill, allowing
- [Soaring Higher: Flying otters, preventing fires, expanding refuges and Fractracker finds](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/soaring-higher-flying-otters-preventing-fires-expanding-refuges-and-fractracker-finds/): LightHawk flew for conservation in so many ways this summer! An orchard under an agricultural conservation easement is hugged by Colorado’s Gunnison River. In a drought year riddled with wildfires, aerial monitoring of conservation lands reduces the risk of sparking a fire and the dangers that follow. Jeremy Puckett/CWLT Smokey Bear is Proud of Us!
- [Soaring Higher: Whales, Lynx, Land Trusts and Toxic Algae](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/soaring-higher-whales-lynx-land-trusts-and-toxic-algae/): How LightHawk's Supporters are Saving the Earth From Slime to SavedWhen LightHawk flights lead to presidential actionsWhen you think of Florida’s beaches, you probably don’timagine them abandoned, full of dead fish, and giving off toxic gas. That’s exactly what happened in 2018 as Florida experienced the worst red tide algae bloom since 2006. Not only
- [Conservation FLYer February, 2020: A Dangerous Road](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-february-2020-a-dangerous-road/): Silverbell Mountains in Ironwood Forest National Monument. The proposed I-11 corridor would be built directly adjacent to Saguaro National Park and Ironwood Forest National Monument, directly affecting wildlife corridors between these protected areas. Photo Credit: Lee Pagni/LightHawk. What Happened: A proposed 280-mile highway in southern Arizona will cut through ecological wonders of the Sonoran Desert.
- [Conservation FLYer: July 2019](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-july-2019/): Did you know 40% of the world's bird species are in decline? LightHawk is doing something about it. Read our latest newsletter.
- [Webinar: Aerial Monitoring of Conservation Easements](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/webinar-aerial-monitoring-of-conservation-easements/): One-hour webinar on how we monitor conservation easements from the air? We've got the webinar recording available now. Considering 1 hour of flight saves about 75 hours of staff time, if you're a land trust employee, you need to watch this!
- [Webinar Recording: Capturing Perspective With Aerial Video](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/webinar-recording-capturing-perspective-with-aerial-video/): On July 22, 2020, LightHawk hosted a webinar on how to capture video from a small aircraft and use that video for conservation communications and monitoring. Aerial video footage is a powerful tool for connecting with supporters and community members at a distance via social and other media, as well as a way to collect
- [891 Hours of Conservation Flying](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/891-hours-on-a-plane/): It’s out! Our Annual Report celebrates the conservation impact LightHawk and our supporters made possible over the past year. Take a look at the missions, partnerships, and progress that defined the year. 5 Things You’ll Discover in Our Annual Report LightHawk 2019 Annual Report 1. We fly to save wildlife from extinction. Read to find out
- [A Wolf Story - Saving a Species Up Close](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/a-wolf-story-saving-a-species-up-close/): A first hand account of a LightHawk transport of endangered Mexican wolves.
- [Choosing the Right Aircraft                         for the Mission](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/above-beyond-april-2026/): As a new pilot, LightHawk contributing writer Kristin Smith wanted to know how we choose the right aircraft for each conservation mission. She spoke with CEO Jim Becker about what goes into those decisions, from carrying photographers and scientists to transporting endangered species. Here’s what she learned. It’s hard to beat a small plane with
- [Reflections from a Retiring LightHawk Volunteer Pilot - Jane Nicolai](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/a-conversation-with-jane-nicolai-reflections-from-a-longtime-lighthawk-volunteer-pilot/): At LightHawk, we have the privilege of working with volunteer pilots whose dedication, skill, and generosity make conservation possible from the air. Few embody that spirit more deeply than Jane Nicolai, who has flown missions with us for decades. This fall, we asked writer and fellow pilot Kristin Smith to sit down with Jane to
- [Discovering collaboration from the air](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/discovering-collaboration-from-the-air/): It was dark when I got out of bed and still before 6:00 am when I pulled onto I-25. I was headed to the airport for my first LightHawk flight on my fifth day as the organization’s Western Program Director. Sure, I had been on plenty of flights in my grandfather’s planes when I was
- [Balancing rapid growth with delicate desert ecosystems](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/balancing-rapid-growth-with-delicate-desert-ecosystems/): It’s not just elbow room — it’s a matter of survival. Arizona’s Sun Corridor will double in population by 2040. One of America’s fastest growing areas is also one of its most environmentally-sensitive, increasing pressure on a North American gem – the Sonoran Desert. The area has some of the greatest diversity of life of
- [Restoring Clean Water to One of America’s Most Burdened Rivers](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/restoring-clean-water-to-one-of-americas-most-burdened-rivers/): The Delaware River carries a heavy load. Each drop of this river is reused 20 times. And while its footprint is less than one percent of the nation’s land, it provides drinking water to five percent of the nation’s population — more than 15 million people. The burden, however, was once much heavier — the
- [Rowene's Father Predicted the Colorado River Would Dry Up. He was Right.](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/rowenes-father-predicted-the-colorado-river-would-dry-up-he-was-right/): Written by Terri Watson, LightHawk CEO The earth can't tell its own stories. LightHawk does. We have stories because of our supporters, and we are deeply grateful for their support. Water Scarcity & Quality Rowene Aguirre-Medina grew up in both Mexico’s Mexicali Valley and the Imperial Valley of California, where her grandfathers pioneered and settled
- [Wilderness, Wings, and Words](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/wilderness-wings-and-words-a-journey-into-conservation-aviation-and-storytelling/): A Journey into Conservation, Aviation, and Storytelling I fell in love with wilderness before I could spell my own name. From a toddler-carrying backpack on my parents’ shoulders in the North Cascade Mountains to slicing across Bellingham Bay in my own sailboat, my childhood was shaped by the outdoors; it was where I went for
- [LightHawk Welcomes New CEO](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/lighthawk-welcomes-new-ceo/): FT. COLLINS, CO, 16 March 2020 - LightHawk, the largest conservation flying organization in the country, welcomes Michele Rutledge as new CEO to lead the organization in its mission to inspire conservation action through the aerial perspective of at-risk and vulnerable ecosystems. Rutledge succeeds former-CEO Terri Watson who continues with LightHawk as a Volunteer Pilot
- [Pilot View: Why do people stay around LightHawk so long?](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/why-do-people-stay-around-lighthawk-so-long/): A while back I was walking through the Novato, CA airport when a corporate jet pilot and I shared a glance. “Hey, LightHawk! I know them,” he said, gesturing to my prized LightHawk jacket. He regaled me with stories from his time flying for LightHawk back in the early 1980s when we employed staff pilots.
- [Think. Plan. Fly.](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/think-plan-fly/): A guest article by Devon Player. For this flight, LightHawk partnered with Puget Soundkeeper and Unleash the Brilliance. Puget Soundkeeper works to preserve and protect the waters of Puget Sound. Unleash the Brilliance was founded to empower youth who are at risk of academic failure to positively engage with their education, their community, and their
- [Pilot View: Flying Baja, a Pilot's Adventure - Day One](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/flying-baja-a-pilots-adventure-day-one/): In 1980, pilot Will Worthington fell in love with the wild side of Baja California. On a recent a 10-day aerial expedition, he found change on the horizon. This is the first in a series of guest posts he wrote about his adventure. How it Began In 1980, my family and I began falling in
- [First Flights: Summer 2017](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/first-flights-summer-2017/): Join us in congratulating the following pilots on completing their first flights with LightHawk! We are so tremendously grateful for all of our pilots, especially those who are new to our family. David Harris Area: Torrance, CA Date: 6/19/2017 Partner: Heal The Bay Mission: This flight helped educate newly appointed Fish and Game Commissioner Anthony Williams. Mr. Williams serves on the
- [Operation Abalone: Nearly 5,000  Take Flight](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-june-2020-featured-mission-operation-abalone/): Nearly 5,000 endangered white abalone take flight on an important step toward returning to the wild. Raised by Bodega Marine Lab and NOAA partners, the abalone were transported by LightHawk volunteer pilot John Baker to Southern California, where The Bay Foundation will prepare them for release into coastal kelp forests. Credit: John Baker/LightHawk. Once abundant
- [Taking Flight for Colorado’s Historic Wolf Reintroduction](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/lighthawk-transports-endangered-gray-wolves-to-colorado-for-release/): [pdf-embedder url="https://www.lighthawk.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/PR-Gray-Wolf-Transport-final2.pdf" title="PR - Gray Wolf Transport"]
- [2024: A Year in Flight](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/featured-mission-december-2024/): Taking time to reflect on 2024's accomplishments From wildlife transports to landscape-scale conservation, 2024 was a year of impact from above. Here’s a look at LightHawk by the numbers. 187 Total Flights LightHawk volunteer pilots flew 187 flights over the year. This is an increase in 40 flights over our 2023 total. It also averages
- [Webinar: Easement Monitoring from the Air](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/webinar-easement-monitoring-from-the-air/): A webinar for pilots and land trusts about aerial conservation easement monitoring.
- [Webinar: Plan a King Tide Flight](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/webinar-plan-a-king-tide-flight/): A king tide floods roads in California, previewing how sea level rise will impact coastal communities in the near future. Robert Most. Thursday, July 18 1pm-1:30pm MST Join LightHawk and Surfrider Foundation to hear how we plan to raise awareness about sea level rise during King Tide events, and how your group can participate. King Tides provide a sneak peek into
- [LightHawk Flies 3 Endangered Mexican Wolves](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/lighthawk-flies-3-endangered-mexican-wolves/): LightHawk flew three endangered Mexican Wolves between the Midwest and New Mexico to help enrich the species' gene pool and reintroduction efforts.
- [Merry Schroeder Awarded NAA Distinguished Volunteer Pilot Award](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/merry-schroeder-awarded-naa-distinguished-volunteer-pilot-award/): LightHawk is proud to share that Merry Schroeder, a steadfast Volunteer Pilot, Board Member, Donor and all around LightHawk champion was recently selected as the 2018 National Aeronautic Association Distinguished Volunteer Pilot.Merry will be presented this award on 27 November at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, Virginia at a formal dinner. Merry's friends and family will be
- [A home for turtles and more](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/a-dome-for-turtles-and-more/): This week, Armando Ubeda, Mesoamerican Program Manager for LightHawk traveled to Costa Rica as part of an expedition to promote the conservation and governability of the Central American Dome. LightHawk is in Costa Rica supporting this initiative led by MarViva, donating flight to the expedition and helping raise the profile of this effort. The Central American Dome
- [Colorado Wolf Transport FAQ](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/colorado-wolf-transport-faq/): What is LightHawk’s role in the reintroduction of gray wolves in Colorado? LightHawk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit conservation organization that accelerates conservation initiatives through aviation. LightHawk volunteer pilots donate their time, aircraft, and resources to transport gray wolves from an airport near their capture location to an airport in Colorado where Colorado Parks & Wildlife
- [Conservation FLYer: May 2019](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-may-2019-2/): Did you know Chinook Salmon can weight up to 126 pounds? What does flying have to do with fish? Read our latest newsletter.
- [Conservation FLYer: June 2019](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/conservation-flyer-june-2019/): What happens when fly fishing doesn't mean what you think? Read our monthly newsletter to find out!
- [LightHawk stars in PBS documentary](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/lighthawk-stars-in-pbs-documentary/): We're thrilled to star in an hour long PBS documentary about LightHawk and conservation! Watch online for free. Full version available: https://video.nhpbs.org/show/lighthawk-destination-conservation/ Share with all your friends! Show them why LightHawk is awesome.

## Pages

- [Home](https://www.lighthawk.org/): LightHawk is a conservation nonprofit that uses general aviation to protect wildlife, waters, and landscapes across North America — see what changes when conservation takes flight.
- [Our Pilots](https://www.lighthawk.org/about-lighthawk/our-pilots/): LightHawk’s volunteer pilot corps spans the country, making it possible to respond to conservation needs across North America. pilots of the month the Latest From a Pilot’s Perspective Hear directly from the volunteer pilots behind the missions. These firsthand stories offer a closer look at the flying, the conservation challenge, and the moments that stay
- [Donate](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/): Your tax-deductible gift keeps volunteer pilots flying for wildlife, watersheds, and wild places. LightHawk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit — EIN 84-0852104.
- [Accountability](https://www.lighthawk.org/about-lighthawk/accountability/): Review LightHawk's Form 990s, audited financials, annual reports, and policies. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit — Tax ID 84-0852104.
- [Ways to Give](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/)
- [Our Impact](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/): 237 conservation flights and 800+ donated flight hours in 2025 alone. See how LightHawk's aerial perspective advances conservation across North America.
- [Newsroom](https://www.lighthawk.org/newsroom/): Mission stories, newsletters, and updates from LightHawk's conservation flights across North America.
- [Abalone](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/abalone/)
- [Chief Executive Officer](https://www.lighthawk.org/careers/ceo-search/): LightHawk seeks its next CEO to lead a nonprofit at the intersection of aviation, conservation, and philanthropy. Remote (US) with travel. Apply by email.
- [Events](https://www.lighthawk.org/events/)
- [Colorado River](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/coloradoriver/)
- [Everglades](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/everglades/)
- [Our Priorities](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/): Landscapes, watersheds, coastlines, wildlife, and climate — the five priorities guiding every LightHawk conservation flight.
- [Condors](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/condors/)
- [Program Partners](https://www.lighthawk.org/join-the-community/program-partners/): Conservation organizations, researchers, tribes, and agencies can partner with LightHawk for donated flights at no direct cost to qualifying partners.
- [Contact](https://www.lighthawk.org/contact/): Get in touch with LightHawk — questions about flights, partnerships, volunteering, or donations. Call 970-797-9355 or send us a message.
- [Media Hub](https://www.lighthawk.org/about-lighthawk/media-hub/): Press coverage, newsletters, annual reports, and media resources from LightHawk's conservation aviation missions.
- [Join the Community](https://www.lighthawk.org/join-the-community/): Three ways to power conservation flight: volunteer as a pilot, request a flight for your conservation project, or support missions with a gift.
- [Featured Missions](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/featured-missions/): Wolf transports, dam-removal documentation, condor recovery — explore recent LightHawk conservation missions across North America.
- [Memorials and Tribute Gifts](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/memorials-and-tribute-gifts/): YOUR TRIBUTE GIFT A Gift Given With Love A tribute gift to LightHawk is a meaningful way to honor someone special while supporting conservation work they would be proud to stand behind. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, remembering a loved one, or simply recognizing someone who cares deeply about aviation and the natural world, your
- [Embed block test](https://www.lighthawk.org/embed-block-test/)
- [Landscapes](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/landscapes/): Aerial documentation and monitoring that helps partners protect iconic landscapes and millions of acres across North America.
- [Privacy Notice](https://www.lighthawk.org/privacy-notice/): Last updated: July 2026 Information we collect We collect information you provide directly — when you donate, sign up for our newsletter, apply to volunteer, request a flight, or contact us. This may include your name, email address, phone number, mailing address, and payment information processed by our donation providers. We also collect limited technical
- [Terms of Use](https://www.lighthawk.org/terms-of-use/): Last updated: July 2026 Acceptance of terms By accessing this website, you agree to these Terms of Use. If you do not agree, please do not use the site. LightHawk may update these terms from time to time; continued use constitutes acceptance of the current version. Use of content Content on this site — text,
- [Watersheds](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/watersheds/): From the Colorado River to the Everglades, LightHawk flights document watershed health for the 40 million people and countless species that depend on them.
- [Wildlife](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/wildlife/): LightHawk transports endangered species — gray wolves, California condors, black-footed ferrets — and flies monitoring missions that speed recovery.
- [Climate](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/climate/): Aerial documentation of a changing climate — helping communities and conservation partners see, plan, and adapt in time.
- [Coastlines](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/our-priorities/coastlines/): Aerial surveys of kelp beds, estuaries, and coastal habitats help partners protect oceans and coastlines from the Salish Sea to the Gulf.
- [Flight Map](https://www.lighthawk.org/our-impact/flight-map/): Explore LightHawk conservation flights across North America — missions for wildlife, watersheds, coastlines, landscapes, and climate.
- [Pilot Requirements](https://www.lighthawk.org/join-the-community/volunteer-pilots/requirements/): 1,000 hours PIC, insurance, certificates, and aircraft standards — everything required to fly conservation missions as a LightHawk volunteer pilot.
- [Volunteer Pilots](https://www.lighthawk.org/join-the-community/volunteer-pilots/): Donate your skills, time, and aircraft to conservation missions across North America with LightHawk's corps of 300+ volunteer pilots.
- [Request a Flight](https://www.lighthawk.org/join-the-community/program-partners/request-a-flight/): Tell us about your conservation project and mission needs. LightHawk matches qualifying partners with volunteer pilots — flights are donated.
- [Corporate Partners](https://www.lighthawk.org/join-the-community/corporate-partners/): Sponsor conservation flight campaigns and put your organization's support to work for wildlife, watersheds, and landscapes across North America.
- [New Partner Inquiry](https://www.lighthawk.org/join-the-community/new-partner-inquiry/)
- [Endowment Fund](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/endowment-fund/): Invest in LightHawk’s Future Our volunteer pilots understand what it means to use flight in service of something larger. Anyone who has ever looked down at a wild place and wanted it protected knows what moves them: the belief that a few hours in the air can help protect a river, a forest, or a
- [Stocks and Securities](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/stocks-and-securities/): A Tax-Smart Way to Give Giving appreciated stock can be a simple way to make a meaningful gift to LightHawk while also taking advantage of potential tax benefits. If you donate securities held for more than one year, you may generally be eligible to deduct their fair market value, subject to tax rules and limitations,
- [Legacy Circle](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/legacy-circle/): A LASTING COMMITMENT What it means to join the Legacy Circle The Legacy Circle honors those who choose to make a lasting commitment to LightHawk, whether through extraordinary lifetime giving or a planned gift. Their generosity helps strengthen LightHawk for the future and ensures that aviation remains a powerful tool for conservation for years to
- [Monthly Giving](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/monthly-giving/): MONTHLY GIVING Why The Lift Matters Lift is what keeps an aircraft in the air. At LightHawk, The Lift is the community that helps keep conservation moving. By giving monthly, you become part of an ongoing story of wildlife recovery, changing landscapes, healthy waters, and the people using aviation to protect them. In Florida, it
- [Wills and Trusts](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/wills-and-trusts/): Designations Plan Your Gift The wild places, waterways, and wildlife LightHawk works to protect will need champions for years to come. Including LightHawk in your will, trust, or beneficiary designations is a meaningful way to extend your commitment to conservation beyond your lifetime, without affecting your finances today. These gifts can be changed at any
- [Donor Advised Funds](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/donor-advised-funds/): Support LightHawk Through Your Donor Advised Fund Keep conservation flying by recommending a grant from your Donor-Advised Fund (DAF). You can make your grant directly through your financial institution or use DAFPay below, an easy and secure giving option LightHawk makes available through Chariot. Avoid lost checks and mailing delays Keep your gift secure with
- [Qualified Charitable Distributions](https://www.lighthawk.org/donate/more-ways-to-give/qualified-charitable-distributions/): HOW A QCD WORKS A Simple Way to Give From Your IRA A Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) allows you to make a gift directly from your IRA to LightHawk without first taking the distribution as taxable income. For 2026, eligible individuals may make QCDs of up to $111,000 annually. If you are required to take
- [Accessibility Policy](https://www.lighthawk.org/accessibility-policy/): Last updated: July 2026 Our commitment LightHawk wants everyone to experience the aerial perspective — including every visitor to this website. We are committed to conforming to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Level AA, and to improving accessibility continuously. What we do Semantic structure, landmarks, and skip links on every page Keyboard-operable navigation,
- [Careers](https://www.lighthawk.org/careers/): Join the LightHawk team and help accelerate conservation through the power of flight. See current openings, including our Chief Executive Officer search.
- [Accountability Archive](https://www.lighthawk.org/accountability-archive/)
- [About LightHawk](https://www.lighthawk.org/about-lighthawk/): Since 1979, LightHawk has mobilized 300+ volunteer pilots to accelerate conservation across North America. Meet the nonprofit that gives conservation its aerial perspective.
- [Our People](https://www.lighthawk.org/about-lighthawk/our-people/): Meet the staff, board, and advisors behind LightHawk's conservation flying missions across North America.
- [50 in 50 Challenge](https://www.lighthawk.org/50-in-50/): 50 conservation flights in 50 days. Follow the missions, meet the volunteer pilots, and help LightHawk turn flight hours into conservation wins.

## Team Members

- [Chris Boyer](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/chris-boyer/): Chris is a unique member of the LightHawk team, serving as both a program manager and a volunteer pilot who has been flying LightHawk conservation missions for more than 20 years. Raised a conservationist, he studied fluvial geomorphology in graduate school at Oregon State University, where he also learned to fly. After a first career
- [Betsy Daub](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/betsy-daub/): Betsy has dedicated 35 years to ecological conservation, combining field research with environmental policy and advocacy. Her career spans work with nonprofit conservation organizations and Minnesota's state natural resource agency, focused on bridging science and policy to protect natural systems across the country. She holds an M.S. in Resource Ecology and Management from the University
- [Jonathan Milne](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/jonathan-milne/): Jonathan's unique blend of conservation expertise and aviation exposure makes him a valuable addition to the LightHawk team. Aviation has been part of his life since childhood, growing up with a father who flew historic aircraft and a brother who served as a USMC helicopter pilot. Before joining LightHawk, Jonathan spent nearly a decade as
- [Elliott Wright](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/jim-becker/): Elliott brings more than 20 years of conservation and philanthropic leadership to LightHawk. He served for nearly a decade as Executive Director of Hidden Villa, a California land trust and environmental education nonprofit, before becoming Campaign Director at The Nature Conservancy, where he secured more than $32 million to protect landscapes and seascapes across the
- [Kimberly Eckert](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/kimberly-eckert/): Kimberly brings nearly two decades of experience in finance, investment management, and natural resources. Originally from rural Montana, she earned her MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business and has worked in New York and Denver across investment banking, energy, and entrepreneurial ventures, including serving as CFO of a geothermal energy startup. She is passionate
- [Kate Hackett](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/kate-hackett/): Kate brings more than 25 years of conservation and nonprofit leadership to the LightHawk board, currently serving as Managing Director of Lands at Ducks Unlimited, where she leads efforts to protect and restore critical landscapes and water resources. Her career includes leadership roles with Delaware Wild Lands, The Nature Conservancy, the U.S. Forest Service, and
- [Steve Kent](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/steve-kent/): Steve has been involved with the outdoors and aviation from early childhood. He started with Cessna Aircraft Company as an Airframe and Powerplant mechanic with Inspection Authorization, which led to a variety of positions with increasing responsibility, including Propeller, Caravan, and Citation Sales. A highly experienced demonstration pilot, he loves sharing amazing aircraft with prospective
- [Alex Polvi](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/alex-polvi/): Alex Polvi is a technology entrepreneur and pilot based in Bend, Oregon. He co-founded and led two venture-backed infrastructure companies, CoreOS (acquired by Red Hat) and Cloudkick (acquired by Rackspace), and has served on the boards of both nonprofit and private organizations, contributing his flight and technology experience. A certificated flight instructor, Alex flies extensively
- [Erin Manzitto-Tripp](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/erin-manzitto-tripp/): Erin is a research scientist and educator whose work has focused on plant and lichen biodiversity and conservation, both across the United States and internationally, particularly in the Neotropics and Africa. She is an Associate Professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology and Curator of Botany at the University of Colorado-Boulder's Museum of Natural History. Her
- [Barry Baker, Ph.D.](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/barry-baker-ph-d/): Barry is senior research scientist at the Conservation Biology Institute, we previously served as director of The Nature Conservancy’s Canyonlands Research Center in Moab, Utah. He also serves as adjunct assistant professor, Department of Environment and Society, College of Natural Resources, Utah State University. His research interests include bioclimatology, response of terrestrial ecosystems (grassland and
- [Brent Blue](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/brent-blue/): Location Jackson, WY Brent attended Vanderbilt University and the University of Louisville School of Medicine. He received his post-doctoral training at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Blue practices medicine in Jackson Hole and is a recognized expert in aviation medicine. He also has been on several nonprofit boards, including the Teton Science School,
- [Brian Williams](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/brian-williams/): Brian is a director at a global consulting firm specializing in the application of information technology. He holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from Northwest University in South Africa and an MBA from Pace University in New York. Brian earned his pilot’s license in South Africa in 1989 and has flown throughout the region for recreation
- [Greg Bedinger](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/greg-bedinger/): Greg has been involved with LightHawk since first volunteering as a pilot in 2002, then as the staff Pilot Outreach Manager, from 2010-2016. Many of his Pacific Northwest LightHawk flights were in support of maintaining and restoring important coastal salmon habitat. Greg learned to fly in Alaska, where he lived prior to moving to Seattle
- [John and Martha King](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/john-and-martha-king/): Pilots throughout the world know John and Martha King from their fun video presentations in their courses, and regard them as their personal aviation mentors. The Kings’ use of technology and clear, simple and fun teaching have made aviation knowledge more accessible to hundreds of thousands of pilots and maintenance technicians. The Kings’ ongoing love
- [Michael Sutton](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/michael-sutton/): Mike currently serves as Executive Director of Audubon California and Vice President of the Pacific Flyway for the National Audubon Society. He served as Vice President and Director of the Center for the Future of the Oceans for the Monterey Bay Aquarium for eight years, and prior to that he headed the Ocean Conservation Program
- [Rick Durden](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/rick-durden/): Rick Durden has been a volunteer pilot for LightHawk since 1990 and has served on its Board of Directors and as executive director. He holds CFII and ATP ratings, is type-rated in the Douglas DC-3 and Cessna Citation. He has written extensively on public benefit flying safety. He currently splits his time between practicing aviation
- [Rudy Engholm](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/rudy-engholm/): Rudy Engholm served as LightHawk’s executive director from 2007-2014. He founded Northern Wings, an environmental flying organization that merged into LightHawk in 2003. He joined LightHawk’s board at that time and served as board president from 2005-2007. Rudy holds a commercial pilot certificate and has also been active in a number of environmental issues, including
- [Russ Cowart](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/russ-cowart/): Russ Cowart is the founder of i-cubed, a remote sensing and GIS solutions company recognized as one of the world’s most respected geospatial technology firms. He has also worked as a field geologist. He completed a BS in Geology from Colorado College, graduate studies in Natural Resource Economics with CU Boulder, and Management of Technology
- [Sally Ranney](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/sally-ranney/): Sally has a thirty-year career in the public and private sectors dedicated to environmental, public land and water policy. She is an internationally recognized wildland conservation specialist and activist. Ms. Ranney was a founding LightHawk Board member and has been a long-time advocate of LightHawk. Ms. Ranney is CEO of Stillwater Preservation, LLC, a wetlands
- [Stephanie Wells](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/stephanie-wells/): Stephanie Wells is a retired professional pilot now living in Arvada, Colorado. During her 10 years in the active Air Force, she began as a weather forecaster, and after pilot training, instructed in the T-37, T-38 and C-130. This was followed by 10 more years in the Reserves flying C-5s. Stephanie worked for NASA at
- [Terri Watson](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/terri-watson/): Terri Watson has a long history with LightHawk beginning as a volunteer pilot in 1997. Terri served as LightHawk’s executive director twice (2014-2020 and 2001-2003) and flight services director (2000-2001). Terri is a former EMS pilot and U.S. Army aviator in fixed and rotary wing service. Terri is a 7000+ hour commercial pilot with airplane
- [Tom McMurray](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/tom-mcmurray/): Tom is currently the Chairman and President of Marine Ventures Foundation which he created a decade ago with the mission to improve and protect critical marine, coastal and river habitats in North America, South America and the Caribbean. He first flew a Lighthawk mission in 2009 to photo baseline the Henrys Fork of the Snake
- [Erin Cooke](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/erin-cooke/): Erin is San Francisco International Airport's first Sustainability Director, where she creates, implements, and reports on the airport's Strategic, Sustainability, Zero Waste, Resilience, and Decarbonization Plans. By brokering high-impact emissions reduction investments within SFO's $7.8 billion capital program, she has helped the airport cut greenhouse gas emissions by 41%, open its first zero net energy
- [Josh Marvil](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/josh-marvil/): Josh has worked in environmental consulting and finance across national and international organizations, and currently serves as managing partner of a private investment partnership in Maine. He is a Director of the National Aviation Hall of Fame, a former Chairman of LightHawk, and Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Trustees at the Chewonki Foundation, a
- [Will Worthington](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/will-worthington/): Will is the founder and president of Pipetech International, an engineering firm that specializes in testing and failure analysis of water and petroleum pipelines worldwide. He graduated from West Point and was a commissioned officer in the regular Army and Arizona Army National Guard for 30 years. He was an officer with the Army Corps
- [Evan Anderman](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/evan-anderman-2/): Evan is a geological engineer and award-winning conservation photographer whose aerial work explores the environment from above, bringing both a technical and artistic perspective to LightHawk's mission. A Private Pilot since 1987, he flies a Cessna 206 and is experienced in mountain flying across Colorado and New Mexico, and also serves as a LightHawk volunteer
- [Chelsea Baird](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/chelsea-baird/): Chelsea brings an extensive background in development, administration, and finance to LightHawk, along with a personal connection to aviation through her husband, Andy, who is a pilot. She is committed to supporting LightHawk's mission and bringing her organizational expertise to the work of conservation flying. Outside of work, Chelsea loves being outdoors, backpacking, hiking, fishing,
- [Chris Lee](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/chris-lee/): Chris Lee brings over 25 years of aviation industry experience to the LightHawk board. His career began in 1998 at Cessna Finance Corporation, where he held various Regional Sales Manager positions based in Kansas, Washington, Massachusetts, and Texas. In 2017, Chris joined SkyVenture International as their Global Vice President of Sales, and in July 2020,
- [Clint Burson](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/clint-burson/): Clint brings more than 15 years of communications experience to LightHawk. Before joining, he served as Director of Government Relations and Communications for the Missoula, Montana Chamber of Commerce, where his work ranged from overseeing chamber communications to fostering relationships with elected officials, agency leadership, and economic development leaders. He also spent nearly a decade
- [Joanna Weitzel](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/joanna-weitzel/): Joanna is a nonprofit leader with over 20 years of experience in marketing, development, and organizational management, dedicated to expanding the conservation impact of mission-driven organizations. Before joining LightHawk, she served as Director of Philanthropy for Welvista and as Executive Director of two conservation nonprofits, Camp Discovery and Carolina Wildlife Center. She holds an M.B.A.
- [Benjamin Cohen](https://www.lighthawk.org/team/benjamin-cohen/): Ben is an attorney based in Atlanta and Boston who brings a lifelong passion for aviation to the LightHawk board — he soloed a glider at 14 and today flies a G36 Bonanza and Citabria, holding tailwheel and seaplane ratings. He joined the board in 2025 after serving as a LightHawk volunteer pilot, bringing a

## Categories

- [Blog](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/blog/): A closer look at the people, places and partnerships behind LightHawk’s conservation work.
- [Focus: Wildlife](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/focus-areas/wildlife/)
- [Focus: Waterways](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/focus-areas/rivers-estuaries/)
- [Focus: Wild Places](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/focus-areas/landscapes/)
- [Focus: Oceans](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/focus-areas/oceans/)
- [Pilot View](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/pilotview/): Stories of conservation flights told by the pilots who fly them
- [Newsletters](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/newsletters/): Quarterly newsletter sharing conservation stories and LightHawk updates
- [Media](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/media/): Press releases and announcements from LightHawk
- [Webinars](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/webinar/): Webinars led by the LightHawk team and partners
- [Featured Mission](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/missions/): Monthly stories highlighting recent conservation missions
- [The Archives](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/archives/): Past LightHawk newsletters and publications
- [NOTAM](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/notam/): News, updates and stories for LightHawk’s volunteer pilots
- [Focus Areas](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/focus-areas/): Program areas where work is focused
- [Content](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/content/): Updates, conservation stories and perspectives from the LightHawk community.
- [Focus: Climate](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/category/focus-areas/climate/)

## Tags

- [land trust](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/land-trust/)
- [webinar](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/webinar/)
- [conservation easement](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/conservation-easement/)
- [aerial monitoring](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/aerial-monitoring/)
- [salmon](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/salmon/)
- [fish](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/fish/)
- [king tide](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/king-tide/)
- [surfrider](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/surfrider/)
- [birds](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/birds/)
- [Puget Sound](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/puget-sound/)
- [students](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/students/)
- [Puget Soundkeeper](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/puget-soundkeeper/)
- [Unleash the Brilliance](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/unleash-the-brilliance/)
- [bobwhite quail](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/bobwhite-quail/)
- [endangered species](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/endangered-species/)
- [Pennsylvania](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/pennsylvania/)
- [Colorado River](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/colorado-river/)
- [Climate](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/climate/)
- [climate change](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/climate-change/)
- [glacier](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/glacier/)
- [glaciers](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/glaciers/)
- [Colorado](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/colorado/)
- [LightHawk](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/lighthawk/)
- [Volunteer Pilot](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/volunteer-pilot/)
- [Awards](https://www.lighthawk.org/what-we-do/tag/awards/)