In the Wild

In the Wild: Saurabh Harohalli with the City of Sacramento

My name is Saurabh Harohalli, and I am part of the EPM Class of 2024. Before coming to EPM, I studied chemical engineering and worked in the manufacturing sector. Through EPM, I am currently shifting my career to focus on the intersection of decarbonization and urban planning.

Renewable Energy, Agriculture and Legal Compatibility: Solar and Williamson Act Contracts

With increasing pressure to meet renewable energy targets in California, ongoing concerns for the future of California’s water supply, and a thriving technology sector within the state, interest in mixing commercial agriculture with renewable energy installations has never been higher. However, until recently, there has been little understanding of how individual counties in California have defined solar installations on commercial, agricultural land under Williamson Act contracts.

Cole Jenson with the California Department of Conservation

I am a second year EPM student with a specialization in Food Systems and Sustainable Agriculture. I came to environmental and agricultural work by way of a bachelors in neuroscience and an early career in public health research. This winding path is a result of the critical importance of climate, ecological, and agricultural issues to the health and wellbeing of individuals and our communities. I hope to work in policy and program level work at the intersection of the health of our environment and of our communities, especially in rural places.

Thomas McNairn with Conservation Strategy Group

Thomas is currently working at Conservation Strategy Group (CSG), a lobbying and strategy firm focused on long-term political and funding strategies to help clients reach their environmental goals.

Lisa Crowley with American Rivers

Last summer, Lisa completed a fellowship with the non-profit organization, American Rivers. American Rivers’ mission is to protect wild rivers, restore damaged rivers and conserve clean water for people and nature. This mission is closely tied to the necessary integration of diversity, equity, and inclusion in all American Rivers’ projects.