Elyse Lee

I've been paddling for about 11 years and have been a member of the CCC since I moved to North Carolina about 6 years ago. So I thought it was about time that I gave back to the CCC and volunteer as Conservation Chair. I must admit most of my understanding of waterway conservation is at the academic level as an environmental toxicologist, so I know very little about the practical aspects of it but willing to learn. I am an Assistant Professor at Mount Olive College where I teach courses in environmental science, conduct research, and do K-12 science outreach. So in combination for my love of paddling, I am very passionate about issues related to water quality, exposure to environmental toxicants, and natural resource management.

As Conservation Chair, I intend to continue our tradition of working with the local community to do river cleanups, maintain access to waterways, and other activities related to conservation and management of natural resources that influence our paddling activities. I am particularly interested in learning more about hydraulic fracturing in NC and it's potential impact on our paddling activities. I'm also very open to hearing your suggestions and concerns related to these issues.

I look forward to serving the CCC in this capacity.