Welcoming Blue Mountain Land Trust's newest team members
WALLA WALLA, WA – At Blue Mountain Land Trust (BMLT), we believe in the power of collective action. We are thrilled to introduce four new additions to the team: Andrew Addessi, Stewardship and Restoration Director; Emma Erickson, Stewardship Associate; Marcus Frey, Development Director; and Craig Piefer, Trail Crew Leader. Their passion and dedication will enhance our commitment to land conservation and community connections to nature across the Blue Mountain region.
Andrew Addessi
Andrew Addessi,
Stewardship & Restoration Director
Andrew is thrilled to join the Blue Mountain Land Trust team. Originally from Pennsylvania, he has spent most of his adult life in the Pacific Northwest and has strong family ties to the Walla Walla Valley.
After receiving a M.S. in Environmental Science from Portland State University, he served as a forester for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, where he gained extensive experience in restoration-focused upland management.
Andrew is deeply committed to the region and looks forward to contributing to BMLT's efforts to conserve and steward shared landscapes for the benefit of all current and future inhabitants.
In his free time, Andrew enjoys spending time outside with his wife, daughter, and dog. He also loves playing traditional folk music on the harmonica and guitar.
Emma Erickson
Emma Erickson,
Stewardship Associate
Emma joins the Blue Mountain Land Trust after recently graduating from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with degrees in Conservation Biology and Environmental Studies. Passionate about environmental protection, Emma is excited to join the stewardship team.
In 2023, Emma lived in Homer, Alaska, where she worked for the Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies, gaining experience in remote environmental monitoring and data collection.
Growing up in the Midwest, Emma understands the economic importance of agriculture and looks forward to collaborating with landowners to promote place-based conservation and implement responsible stewardship practices.
In her spare time, Emma enjoys making pottery, tending her garden, practicing yoga, and baking sourdough bread. She is passionate about sustainable living and outdoor recreation and is excited to explore trails in the Blue Mountain region.
Marcus Frey
Marcus Frey,
Development Director
Marcus Frey is excited to bring his passion and expertise to BMLT, helping to support and sustain the organization’s vital work in the community. Originally from Germany, Marcus has found a true home in the Pacific Northwest, where he’s rooted in the community and passionate about creating strong relationships.
With nearly two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Marcus has excelled in roles such as major fundraiser, director of development, marketing and advancement, and executive director. He is a dedicated relationship builder and is known for his ability to organize impactful fundraising initiatives.
When not at work, you can find Marcus outside in the garden, caring for plants, flowers, and chickens. Marcus also enjoys cooking and baking, particularly sourdough bread, pretzels, and pizza, as well as spending time with family and friends.
Craig Piefer
Craig Piefer,
Trail Crew Leader
Craig Piefer joins BMLT as the new Trail Crew Leader, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for outdoor recreation.
Originally from Walla Walla, Craig recently returned after a significant tenure in Colorado. He holds a degree in Outdoor Recreation from Eastern Washington University, equipping him with expertise in trail management and outdoor activities.
In Colorado, Craig served as the Executive Director of the Buena Vista Singletrack Coalition (BVSC), leading hands-on fieldwork and collaborating with teams to build, enhance, and maintain trails.
When not at work, Craig spends time with his family and can also be found hiking, biking, and skiing on trails around the West.
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