Department of Conservation and Recreation names new Virginia Natural Heritage Program director

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: November 12, 2026
Contact: Emi Endo, Senior Public Relations and Marketing Specialist, 804-786-8442, [email protected]

Department of Conservation and Recreation names new Virginia Natural Heritage Program director

(Editors: Follow this link to download an image. Photo caption: Lesley Starke][alt:Smiling woman in front of blurred blue flag.)

The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has announced the selection of Lesley Starke as the new director of the Virginia Natural Heritage Program.

Starke brings nearly two decades of experience in conservation leadership, natural resource management, biodiversity conservation, land protection, stewardship and public administration to the role. The mission of the program is to conserve Virginia's biodiversity.

Starke, who has been serving as an acting assistant director since June 10, 2025, joined in 2023 as chief of natural areas stewardship, overseeing restoration and management efforts across Virginia's 69 natural area preserves.

"Lesley Starke has demonstrated an ability to bring people together, build consensus around complex issues, and move the important work of the Virginia Natural Heritage Program forward," said DCR Director Nikki Rovner. "Her experience managing operations and building strong relationships within and across agencies and organizations positions her well to lead the program into its next chapter."

Before joining DCR, Starke managed a statewide network of nature preserves in North Carolina for the Plant Conservation Program. She is an ecologist with a background in conservation of endangered species and natural communities and holds a master's degree in environmental management from Duke University's Nicholas School of the Environment.

"One of the things I love about conservation is that the work we do today will matter long after we're gone," Starke said. "For 40 years, this program has been protecting a remarkable natural legacy for future generations. As a Virginian, I can't imagine a more meaningful responsibility than helping carry that work forward."

Chosen in a nationwide search, Starke has begun her new duties this week.

Starke is the fourth director of the program, which is marking its 40th anniversary this year.

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The Virginia Natural Heritage Program, based in the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, manages natural area preserves and develops and maps data about rare species, habitats and natural communities. Charged with conserving Virginia's biodiversity, this division shares science-based information and tools with partners to protect natural heritage resources and ecologically important places.

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