None The Nature Conservancy in California Press Releases Search All Press Releases Misty Herrin Phone: (213) 327-0405 E-mail: mherrin@tnc.org

The Nature Conservancy Taps State Parks Veteran to Lead San Diego Program

San Diego, CA — February 11, 2004 — The Nature Conservancy has hired David Van Cleve, a 23-year veteran of California State Parks, to head the Conservancy's San Diego program. Van Cleve will oversee all of the Conservancy's activities in San Diego County, including efforts to protect the back country and the Ramona Grasslands, one of the last remaining stretches of native grasslands in Southern California.

"We are thrilled to welcome David Van Cleve as senior project director for San Diego," said Michael O'Connell, managing director of the Conservancy's South Coast Ecoregion.  "San Diego is one of The Nature Conservancy's most important projects. In addition to Dave's experience in acquiring and protecting habitat, we value his ability to deal effectively with leaders in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and with land owners."

Van Cleve has worked in San Diego County for the past 23 years at the California Department of Parks and Recreation. In his most recent position as district superintendent, he was responsible for protecting more than 17,000 acres of important habitat, including Sentenac Canyon, Lucky 5 Ranch, Mason Valley and Vallecito Ranch.

"I look forward to helping The Nature Conservancy achieve its mission in Southern California," said Van Cleve.  "I am fortunate to have learned the value of conserving biodiversity in my Parks career, and I believe I can utilize many of the skills learned there to continue to help protect the incredible array of natural resources in San Diego County. This county is, in my view, the most incredible place on Earth, and it is imperative that we strive to ensure the quality of life found here for generations to come."

Van Cleve earned his BA and MA in geography from the University of California, and has taught college courses in physical geography and parks management. In addition to his conservation work, Van Cleve serves as a director of the Borrego Springs Bank.