Christa Cherava

Christa earned a Master’s degree from Michigan Technological University’s School of Forest Resources and Environmental Science, an academic foundation that prepared her to tackle the diverse and complex challenges facing public lands. Reflecting both her professional journey and personal curiosity, the places she has called home across the United States are nearly as varied as the conservation issues she has worked on throughout her career at NPCA.

Previously, Christa pursued a research sabbatical in Las Vegas, Nevada, where she managed a project between Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument and the Nevada State Museum. The project involved the laboratory examination, cataloging, and inventory of approximately 7,000 Pleistocene (Ice Age) fossils recovered from the monument and housed in museum collections pending the establishment of a visitor center. A key component of her work was interpreting the scientific significance of these discoveries and translating complex research into stories that could engage and inspire the public. Today, she continues to contribute to the field through volunteer service on a communications committee for the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. Learn more about paleontology in the parks.

At NPCA, Christa co-leads the organization’s internal Green and Sustainability Team and advocates for the thoughtful integration of cultural and historic resources into ecological assessments. She believes effective conservation requires recognizing both the natural and human histories that shape landscapes and waterscapes, ensuring resource stewardship reflects the full story of the places being protected.

Christa is an avid reader and loves spending time outside observing the natural world—both passions that continue to fuel her sense of wonder. She also adores her cat, Stamen Oresti ‘Meatball’ Cherava!