His has emphasized the development of collaborative, locally-driven conservation projects. Since 2006, he has worked with Washington Water Trust, a non-profit developing in-stream flow projects throughout eastern Washington in partnership with tribes, farmers, and agencies. He also helped write the book (well – a book, anyway) on public dialogue in contentious natural resources issues, with a chapter in "Coexisting with Carnivores: Lessons from the Greater Yellowstone", served as a Peace Corps Volunteer for natural resources in rural Thailand, and developed a grant for a sustainable design and land use demonstration site in Colorado. He spent his childhood in rural Missouri. He is an active member of Ellensburg United Methodist Church, where he coordinates small group ministries, and has recently initiated a candidacy for ordained ministry with the church.