Romey Swanson

About Romey Swanson

Values-based conservation leader and wildlife biologist committed to connecting people, science, and landscapes through collaborative stewardship. Brings 15+ years of experience guiding organizations, shaping statewide land, water, and wildlife policy, and advancing innovative conservation programs. Known for relationship-centered leadership, effective communication, stewardship-focused incentives, and cultivating momentum around shared conservation priorities.

Experience

1. Executive Director

   Devils River Conservancy

   Apr 2023 — Present · Austin, TX, US

   As ED of the Devils River Conservancy, I lead a mission-driven organization dedicated to treasuring, preserving, and protecting the Devils River - one of Texas’ most pristine and culturally significant waterways. My role spans organizational strategy, board governance, fundraising, staff leadership, communications, and external relations, with a strong emphasis on building trust-based partnerships among private landowners, agencies, funders, tribal representatives, policymakers, and local communities.Since assuming this role, I have more than doubled organizational revenue, raising approximately annually through a diversified development strategy that includes major donor cultivation, grants, earned income, corporate partnerships, and the establishment of an invested reserve account. I manage an operating budget of roughly ensuring strong financial oversight and alignment between resources and strategic priorities. I also helped author and advance HB securing new protections for the Devils River; led a multi-year, stakeholder-driven watershed planning process; and founded the Southwest Texas Land & Wildlife Summit to strengthen regional collaboration.My leadership approach emphasizes mentorship, meaningful connection, and shared stewardship. I have guided the organization’s transition to a more diverse, governance-focused board; strengthened respectful engagement with landowners, communities, and agency partners; and fostered a workplace culture grounded in accountability and collaboration. Alongside advancing conservation and water stewardship initiatives, I have supported efforts to appreciate and protect the region’s globally recognized rock art and to acknowledge Indigenous ancestry and original stewardship through consultation and thoughtful organizational communications. This work reflects a commitment to conservation that is science-informed, culturally aware, and rooted in long-term relationships with people and place.

Education

• Texas State University

  Master of Science (MS), Wildlife Ecology

  2007 — 2009

• Texas State University

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Wildlife Biology (Management Focus)

  2004 — 2007

Skills

• Strategic Planning
• Arcgis
• Habitat Restoration
• Endangered Species
• Wildlife
• Ecology
• Gis
• Sampling
• Blogging
• Ecological Restoration
• Data Collection
• Conservation Issues
• Wildlife Management
• Ornithology
• Land Conservation
• Leadership
• Field Work
• Bird Watching
• Gps
• Environmental Policy
• Herpetology