The Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) has hired Leeah Sutton as the new Recreation & Stewardship Coordinator. This newly created position reflects the organization’s growing need for expanded capacity to support local initiatives and is made possible through grant funding support.
In this role, Sutton will assist with planning and implementing outdoor asset development projects designed to expand recreational opportunities while also coordinating stewardship strategies and community programming that support a healthy environment.
“Leeah brings a strong combination of experience and enthusiasm to this role and we are very happy to have her join the DRBA team,” said Anna Wheeler, DRBA’s Recreation & Stewardship Manager who will supervise this position. “With her background and hands-on experience, she will be a tremendous asset as we continue our work to preserve and protect the Dan River watershed.”
Sutton holds a B.S. in Biology and a minor in Environmental Health from East Tennessee State University. Her professional experience spans across nonprofit, government and community-based settings, where she has coordinated conservation initiatives, outdoor programs and multi-partner collaborations. She is a certified Environmental Educator through the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality and a Wilderness First Responder through NOLS Wilderness Medicine.
“I’m excited to join DRBA’s mission and contribute to their growing recreation and stewardship efforts,” said Sutton. “I look forward to working with partners and the community to expand access, deepen meaningful public engagement and support conservation initiatives that create lasting impact.”
DRBA’s mission is to promote and protect the natural and cultural resources of the Dan River Basin through education, recreation and stewardship. DRBA works to fulfill that mission by building river accesses and trails, educating people of all ages about protecting our natural resources and protecting water resources through water quality monitoring, cleanups and master planning. The Dan River basin is 3,300 square miles including sixteen counties throughout Virginia and North Carolina. For more information about DRBA, please visit danriver.org.
