Local Conservation Organization Hires First Woman Director

PUYALLUP, WA - January 17, 2022 – Pierce Conservation District (PCD), a government agency that works with local landowners and public agencies to conserve natural resources, announced today it has hired its first-ever female Executive Director, Dana Coggon. Coggon, a Tacoma resident, steps into her new position on January 17^th. For the last fifteen years, Coggon has been the Kitsap County Noxious Weed Control Coordinator and has an exceptional leadership record. She also has a strong science background with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in agriculture, weed science, and pest management. 

“We are so pleased to have Dana stepping into this leadership role with the District,” said PCD Board Chair Jeanette Dorner. “We are especially proud,” Dorner continued, “that not only is Dana well qualified for this role because of her strong background in the work of the district, but as a woman and active member of the LGBTQ community, she represents some of the diversity that is still underrepresented in leadership positions in our country.”  

To put the importance of this in perspective, the Center for American Progress and the Pew Research Center report that while women earn 59 percent of all master’s degrees in the United States, only 7.4 percent of Fortune 500 CEOs and 30 percent of University Presidents are women. Coggon and other women like her are paving the way for more women in leadership across the country, at a time when conserving our natural resources for future generations is becoming even more critical. 

Coggon receives high praise from her colleagues and community leaders. Laura Ryser, Director of the Washington State University Kitsap County Extension, considers her "one of the most successful managers of a noxious weeds program in the State with a robust professional network and deep respect from community partners.”

In Pierce County, Gig Harbor City council member Robyn Denson also says good things about Coggon. “In working with others she's clear yet diplomatic, respectful, and caring - and that makes her an incredibly effective leader,” said Denson, “In terms of a high-profile, respected leader in the environmental community, you could do no better than Dana Coggon.”

Finally, Coggon herself is excited about her new role. “I’m looking forward to working with the PCD team to support healthy lands,” said Coggon. “When we take care of our land, we also contribute to the health of people, our communities, and our economy.”

To learn more about the work of PCD and stay updated on the impact Dana has on the organization, sign up for their newsletter, visit their website at www.piercecd.org, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

Pierce Conservation District

The Pierce Conservation District is a local government that works with the community to improve water quality, promote sustainable agriculture, create thriving habitats, and build a just and healthy food system for all through education, community engagement, and financial and technical assistance. To learn more, visit www.piercecd.org or watch this video.