Brodhead Watershed Assn. Welcomes Kelly Gallo As New Executive Director

On September 29, the Monroe County-based Brodhead Watershed Association announced the appointment of Kelly Gallo as its new Executive Director

Gallo grew up on a Christmas tree farm in Orangeville, Columbia County., and has lived in Utah for the past 16 years. She returns to the Poconos with longtime experience as a conservation outreach professional connecting people of all ages to natural resources.

BWA President Craig Todd joked, “I know, you’re all wondering why a watershed association would hire a desert dweller as an executive director. As you read Kelly’s bio, you’ll agree that she’s the perfect fit for one of the most active watershed associations in Pennsylvania.” 

“Like many committed to the Brodhead Watershed Association, my life has been carved by creeks and rivers,” Gallo said. “My childhood was spent playing in Fishing Creek, turning over rocks to look for bugs and crayfish. This led to a career of introducing people of all ages to macroinvertebrates, water quality, and watersheds as well as a lifelong commitment to facilitating connections with the natural world.”

Most recently, Gallo was an environmental health scientist at Summit County Health Department, Park City, Utah. While previously living in Pennsylvania, Gallo was an environmental education specialist at Hickory Run State Park, Carbon County.

She graduated in 1999 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, and took graduate-level coursework in zoology, conservation, and education at Miami University, Utah State University, and University of Montana.

“It is evident by BWA’s success that there is a wealth of knowledge and contribution by amazing volunteers, board members, partners, and staff. I am most excited about working with this dedicated team,” Gallo said.

When not at work, Gallo likes to travel, garden, mountain bike, hike, snowboard, hunt and fish. She can be found reading about sustainable agriculture or taking courses in integrated pest management.

“After living in a cold desert in Utah for the past 16 years, I am excited to return to the Poconos and its plethora of water resources,” she said.

For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the Brodhead Watershed Association website or Follow them on Facebook.  Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the Association.  Click Here to become a member.

[Posted: Sept. 29, 2020]  PA Environment Digest