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Meet Andrew Downs

Executive Director

Originally from Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, Andrew Downs is a 2001 graduate of Appalachian State University, and went on to earn a Master’s in Natural Resource Management from NC State in 2005. Andrew worked early in his conservation career on North Carolina’s Haw River, building access points, supporting communities and expanding the trail network in North Carolina.

Later, Andrew joined the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, and worked up the ranks from leading the Trail Crew program in Asheville to serving as Senior Regional Director overseeing both the Virginia and North Carolina regional offices. He has extensive experience in land protection, state and federal partnerships, visitor engagement and organizational development.

With family near Mouth of Wilson, Andrew has a deep relationship with the New River Watershed throughout the three states. An avid paddler, he’s often on the water with his wife of 12 years and their two (not so) little girls on the North Fork and Little River.

 

BS in Cultural Resource Management, Appalachian State University
MS in Natural Resource Management, North Carolina State University