Category: Upcoming Speakers

Jane Herndon brings a breadth and depth of environmental experience to our organization that will enhance SALT’s ability to protect land in coastal Alabama. She has two degrees in geology and gained her law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. Jane enjoyed a successful 20-year career as an environmental attorney representing clients in environmental law and real estate.

Shifting from law to policy, she was Assistant Commissioner for the New Jersey Department for Environmental Protection where she administered the Department’s air quality, solid & hazardous waste, and the environmental safety and health divisions.

Moving from NJ to Alabama, she lived in Orange Beach and worked in Florida for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Among other responsibilities and accomplishments, Jane administered the Department’s Water Resource Management program, including coastal resources, coastal construction, port expansion, dredging, wetland, and wastewater.

Most recently, Jane worked for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey as manager of the Aviation Department’s environmental programs. There she led work to support environmentally-sound operations at its five airports. She is happy to change the sounds of airplanes for the sounds of waves as she resumes her residence in Orange Beach.

Jane is a well-rounded professional with a demonstrated commitment to environmental protection and stewardship. She is concerned about the potential adverse impacts of rapid development in coastal Alabama. Coming from a highly developed state (New Jersey) that did not plan for open space and conservation until late in the state’s development, she understands the need to prioritize open space conservation. She also recognizes the importance of instilling the value of conservation in local communities, including their residents, landowners, and elected officials.

We are thrilled to have Jane lead us as we protect land and promote environmental education in coastal Alabama.