Lucas Schaffer
I currently serve as the Environmental Manager for the Northern Palm Beach County Improvement District, an independent special taxing district in South Florida. In this role, I oversee the management and restoration of over 3,000 acres of natural areas, including directing full-time field crews and managing large-scale invasive species control programs. Early in my career, I worked with Broward County Parks and Recreation as a Natural Resource Specialist for the Environmental Planning and Management Division, where I developed a strong foundation in spatial analysis, wildlife monitoring, and natural area planning. I hold a B.S. in Geology and an M.S. in Environmental Science from Florida Atlantic University, along with certificates in GIS and Environmental Restoration.
Participating in the Natural Areas Training Academy was an important step in my professional development. The CNAM courses helped me build the confidence to lead more effectively and communicate clearly with stakeholders, visitors, and other agencies. The training gave me practical tools to assess natural areas, collaborate with partners, and ensure our work supports long-term conservation goals. A major highlight of the program was the opportunity to connect with other passionate professionals from around the state who share a deep commitment to Florida’s natural areas and deal with many of the same challenges in the field. I would highly recommend this program to anyone working in land management or conservation.
Lucas earned his Certificate in Natural Areas Management in 2025.