National Grazing Lands Coalition Appoints Ashley McDonald as New Executive Director
June 5, 2023 – The National Grazing Lands Coalition (NatGLC), a leading organization dedicated to promoting sustainable grazing practices and the stewardship of grazing lands, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Ashley McDonald as its new Executive Director. With a strong background in working lands stewardship and sustainable development, Ashley brings a wealth of experience and expertise to further the mission of NatGLC. As the new Executive Director, McDonald will assume the responsibility of leading NatGLC’s strategic initiatives, expanding its impact on grazing land conservation, and driving educational programs aimed at promoting sustainable grazing practices. With her visionary leadership, NatGLC aims to strengthen its position as a leading advocate for the sustainable management of grazing lands across the nation.
McDonald’s extensive experience in environmental advocacy and dedication to sustainable development make her an ideal fit for NatGLC’s mission. Ashley grew up on a farm in Missouri and studied Agricultural Economics while attending her home state’s Land Grant institution, University of Missouri-Columbia. Her educational interests then took her to Washington DC to study law at George Mason University. Ashley has notably worked for the National Cattleman’s Beef Association and Missouri Farm Bureau Federation, two of NatGLC’s member organizations. She joins us now after serving as Assistant Vice President, Sustainability Development & Outreach for the National Pork Board.
“I am honored to join the National Grazing Lands Coalition, where I believe our work around optimizing grazing practices benefits our land, our people, and the economy,” McDonald said. “I believe that by fostering collaboration and implementing science-based strategies, we can achieve the multiple goals of supporting ranching communities, protecting the ecological health of our grazing lands, and sharing these positive results with stakeholders around the globe.”
NatGLC is a coalition of ranchers, researchers, conservationists, and industry partners dedicated to the sustainable management of grazing lands in the United States. The organization promotes the use of sound grazing management practices that enhance the health of the land, improve water quality, and support the livelihoods of ranchers.
“NatGLC is delighted to welcome Ashley McDonald as our new Executive Director,” said Rob Cook, Board Chair of the National Grazing Lands Coalition. “Ashley’s experience in working land stewardship, agricultural policy, and dedication to sustainable practices will significantly contribute to advancing our mission and ensuring the long-term health of our grazing lands. Not only will she be an outstanding addition to NatGLC, but her leadership is also a valuable resource to our member organizations and partners.”
As Ashley McDonald assumes her new role, NatGLC is excited about the opportunities that lie ahead. Her expertise, combined with the passion and commitment of NatGLC’s members and partners, will strengthen the organization’s ability to drive positive change and promote the grassroots efforts our producer-led organization began more than 30 years ago.
About the National Grazing Lands Coalition:
The National Grazing Lands Coalition is a collaboration of ranchers, researchers, conservationists, and industry partners working together to promote the sustainable management of grazing lands. Through education, outreach, and partnerships, NGLC advocates for the adoption of grazing practices that support the health of the land, improve water quality, and maintain the viability of ranching communities. The organization provides resources and expertise to empower ranchers to implement sound grazing management practices, fostering the long-term sustainability of grazing lands in the United States.
For media inquiries or further information, please contact:
Ellen Harrell
Director of Marketing & Communications
National Grazing Lands Coalition
Phone: (225) 328-2445
Email: ellen@grazinglands.org
