Yosemite National Park Picks New Resources Manager

Yosemite National Park Superintendent Michael J. Tollefson announced that Dr. Niki Nicholas has been chosen as the new Chief of Resources Management at Yosemite National Park. Dr. Nicholas´ appointment will become effective late January, 2004.

“Dr. Nicholas has a proven track record in managing natural and cultural resources in new and innovative ways. We look forward to her bringing these talents and energy to Yosemite,” stated Tollefson.

Nicholas comes to Yosemite from the Tennessee Valley Authority where she is currently the Senior Manager, Environmental Impact and Reduction Technologies, Public Power Institute. She also has held positions with the National Park Service and the State of Virginia.

Nicholas holds a Ph.D. in Forestry from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and a Masters Degree in Ecology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. She has extensive field work experience and has published more than 25 peer reviewed articles and book chapters on forestry and ecology related topics.

As the Chief of Resources Management, Nicholas will be responsible for all programs, budgets and personnel in natural and cultural resources. This includes wildlife management, ecology, botany, vegetation management, Geographic Information Systems, and archeology. She will serve as one of the park´s seven Division Chiefs and be a member of the Senior Management Team.