BLM selects Kay-Leigh Barnitz as new Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument manager

Ukiah, Calif.— The Bureau of Land Management California and the Mendocino National Forest announce the selection of Kay-Leigh Barnitz as the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument manager. Her career in public service and natural resources spans more than 10 years. She now embraces the challenge of overseeing the management of 330,780 acres of public lands in a region stretching from Napa County to the mountains of the Mendocino National Forest north of Clear Lake.  

“Kay-Leigh is an experienced, dedicated and collaborative leader,” stated BLM Central California District Manager Chris Heppe. “Her extensive knowledge of natural resource management and commitment to community partnerships will benefit the Monument’s scenic and biologically diverse landscapes.” 

“I am extremely pleased to welcome Kay-Leigh to the region,” says Acting Mendocino National Forest Supervisor David Fournier. “I share her excitement for the opportunities here and gratitude for the Monument and the collaboration among our agencies and partners.” 

Barnitz has a strong background in natural resource management at the Monument. Over the last eight years, as the wildlife biologist for the Ukiah Field Office, she was instrumental in restoring and protecting rare ecosystems in the region including those encompassed by the Monument.  

“The Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument encompasses some of the most spectacular landscapes and diverse ecosystems in the country,” Barnitz said. “I am looking forward to continuing my work with the communities of northern California, our partners, and the visitors to ensure this special place is available for the use and enjoyment of current and future generations.”  

Kay-Leigh is a self-proclaimed, “Woman of the West.” Originally from New Mexico, she was raised in Oregon, and now enjoys life in California. Her permanent career was first spurred by the BLM’s Direct Hire Authority/Resource Assistant Internship program with the Las Cruces District Office in Las Cruces, New Mexico. She values the Western lifestyle and loves hiking, riding horses, running her dogs, hunting, and snowboarding on public lands. She holds a bachelor’s degree in wildlife science from New Mexico State University.