Speaker: Rachel Laura Deputy Executive Director, Friends of the Verde RiverRachel is the Deputy Executive Director of Friends of the Verde River and a Certified Wildlife Biologist with expertise in species conservation, habitat restoration, and Endangered Species Act (ESA) policy. She has extensive experience leading species status assessments and collaborating with stakeholders to inform ESA decision-making, having previously worked as a biologist for the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Rachel’s background also includes designing and implementing habitat restoration projects to improve riparian and upland ecosystems. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in firefly distribution and ecology in arid environments, her research focuses on conserving these unique species. As one of the few experts on Southwest fireflies, Rachel works at the intersection of science, policy, and conservation. In her free time Rachel enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, and learning to play the cello. She lives in Flagstaff with her husband and their three kids.