RGS & AWS is excited to announce the appointment of Sara Cerv as the forest conservation director for the Coastal Plain and Piedmont region. This is the first time the organization has hired for this position, marking a significant investment in addressing conservation challenges and opportunities in these critical areas. With her extensive background in forestry, technological expertise and passion for sustainable forest management, Cerv brings a dynamic perspective to the organization’s mission of improving forest health and wildlife habitat.
Cerv, a native of Blacksburg, Virginia, earned her master of forestry from Virginia Tech in 2020. After graduation, she worked with GFR Forestry Consultants PLLC in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she specialized in managing GIS forest databases and integrating technology into field operations. She’s is also a certified remote pilot, and serves as membership chair for the Appalachian Society of American Foresters board.
Cerv’s journey into conservation started as a child, horseback riding in the Appalachian Mountains of Southern Virginia. These childhood experiences developed a deep appreciation for the natural environment which later evolved into a passion and career in forestry. “I entered the conservation field over a decade ago because I wanted to make an impact in preserving and enhancing the forest ecosystems that shaped my life,” she shared.
“Sara’s skills and dedication align perfectly with our mission,” said Ben Jones, president and CEO of RGS & AWS. “Our growing impact as an organization – and our success in achieving mission-specific habitat objectives – has enabled us to make a targeted investment in a key geographic region for wintering American woodcock. Ten years ago, we established the American Woodcock Society to support the habitat needs of woodcock and other forest-dependent species. As we close out our 10th anniversary of the AWS, we’re beyond thrilled to be leading the charge to improve woodcock habitat in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont regions of the eastern United States.”
As forest conservation director, Cerv will lead efforts to promote and implement sustainable forest management practices that benefit ruffed grouse, American woodcock and other forest wildlife. Her work will support healthy diverse forests that provide essential ecosystem benefits including wildlife biodiversity, clean air and clean water. She explained her enthusiasm for joining the organization: “The mission of RGS & AWS aligns with my personal values and professional background in sustainable forest management and wildlife conservation. I recognize that with growing environmental challenges, there’s a need for informed science-driven conservation practices to help preserve and enhance forest ecosystems. The opportunity to contribute to impactful hands-on forest management while collaborating with passionate like-minded individuals is what drew me to the organization.”
Cerv’s new role excites her most for the opportunity to lead efforts in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont region, working on large-scale forest management projects, collaborating with local communities and helping build lasting solutions that address challenges like habitat fragmentation and forest diversification. However, she acknowledges the challenges ahead. “While I’m excited about the opportunities, I’m mindful of the complexity of the work involved. The breadth of the landscape and the diversity of stakeholders can create both logistical and strategic challenges. Additionally, leading large-scale initiatives in a new organization brings its own learning curve, but I’m confident that my experience and passion will guide me through the challenges and help me advance the mission of the organization,” Cerv noted.
When she’s not working to improve forest ecosystems, Cerv enjoys exploring the outdoors with her dog Olive or listening to live music at one of Raleigh’s many vibrant venues.
