Elizabeth Riggs
Owner, Freshwater Coast Solutions, LLC @ Huron River Water Trails
Elizabeth Riggs is a sustainability leader with 25 years of experience working at the nexus of science, policy, and management. Elizabeth developed and managed RiverUp!, a $50 million public-private revitalization of the Huron River focused on projects that improve river ecology, recreation, and placemaking that leverages freshwater assets. As part of that work, she facilitated the Huron River Water Trail and led the effort for its designation as the 18th National Water Trail by the National Park Service, and hosted the Inaugural National Water Trails Forum. Through her leadership, a first-of-its-kind study established the economic impact of the water trail to spur investments in trail development, conservation, and vibrant communities. As a native Wisconsinite and now a 20-year resident of Michigan, Elizabeth is inspired by the vision of a healthy Great Lakes basin with resilient, sustainable communities. Elizabeth and her husband of 17 years, Chris, raise their two children in Ann Arbor, Michigan.