Suggestions
Stacy Meyers
Senior Counsel at Openlands
Professional Background
Stacy Meyers has established herself as a leading figure in environmental law and conservation policy since joining Openlands in September 2006. With a robust commitment to acquiring and preserving open spaces, Mrs. Meyers is instrumental in advancing legal and policy solutions that enhance water quality and protect significant natural areas. Notably, she has championed the conservation of places like the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, demonstrating her dedication to both ecological preservation and the public good.
In her role at Openlands, Mrs. Meyers collaborates with various stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, and other interest groups, to develop innovative strategies that address the impacts of transportation projects on the environment. Her collaborative approach ensures that diverse perspectives are considered, fostering better solutions that benefit both people and wildlife. Mrs. Meyers tirelessly works to strengthen legislation, regulations, and policies, further expanding the ability to protect and restore natural areas across northeastern Illinois.
Prior to her impactful tenure at Openlands, Mrs. Meyers honed her expertise in environmental law over nearly a decade, primarily at the Cook County State's Attorney's Office and the Office of the Illinois Attorney General. During this time, she prosecuted civil and criminal cases, gaining invaluable experience in legal proceedings related to environmental protection. Furthermore, Mrs. Meyers had the honor of working alongside legal luminary Samuel T. Lawton, Jr. at the Illinois Pollution Control Board, where she played a key role in drafting regulations and Board opinions that addressed critical issues such as air pollution and the deregulation of the electrical industry.
Her multifaceted expertise encompasses land acquisition, the management of conservation easement portfolios, water quality initiatives, stormwater management strategies, and transportation planning, including the National Environmental Policy Act and Section 404 permit review. Through her passion for conservation design and open space advocacy, Mrs. Meyers has emerged as a central figure in the movement to create sustainable environments.
Education and Achievements
Mrs. Meyers holds a Juris Doctor (JD) with an Environmental Certificate from the Chicago-Kent College of Law, where she developed a solid foundation in environmental law and its applications. Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Washington University in St. Louis, fostering her strong communication skills—an asset in her legal advocacy and conservation efforts.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Meyers has not only excelled in her roles but has also contributed to significant projects that seek to accelerate conservation initiatives at a larger scale. She focuses on transforming pilot programs such as Space to Grow into standard practices that lead to systemic improvements in environmental management regionally. With a clear vision of expanding and preserving parks, preserves, and riverfronts, she is a catalyst for advancing conservation efforts and ensuring sustainable natural areas for future generations.
Achievements
- Transformation of Conservation Practices: Mrs. Meyers is leading efforts to make innovative programs like Space to Grow common practice across the region, showcasing her dedication to improving environmental initiatives systematically.
- Protection of Significant Natural Areas: Her work in protecting globally significant locations, especially the Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie, underlines her commitment to balancing human activity with ecological integrity.
- Regulatory Expertise: Through her previous roles, she has demonstrated exceptional prowess in navigating complex environmental regulations and drafting meaningful legal frameworks that benefit both the environment and society.
- Collaborative Leadership: Mrs. Meyers has established strong partnerships with a wide array of stakeholders, from government bodies to local communities, facilitating a collaborative approach to environmental stewardship and policy-making.
The impact of Stacy Meyers’ work is profound and far-reaching. As Senior Counsel at Openlands, she embodies the spirit of environmental advocacy and law. Her passion for nature and commitment to creating thriving communities through sustainable practices exemplify her role as a leader in the environmental sector.
