Courtney Washburn to Lead Idaho Conservation League
The veteran conservation leader will begin her tenure as executive director on October 28.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in People
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The Idaho Conservation League has appointed Courtney Washburn to serve as its new executive director. She will officially assume the position on October 28, 2026.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a leadership transition for the environmental organization as it looks to build upon its legacy of conservation work in Idaho. Washburn takes over the role as the organization prepares for its next chapter of advocacy.
The Idaho Conservation League maintains a staff of 28 employees and represents a base of more than 30,000 supporters. The organization has operated in the state since its founding in 1973.
The players
Courtney Washburn
She is the incoming executive director of the Idaho Conservation League who previously served as the chief of staff to the mayor of Boise.
Justin Hayes
He is the outgoing leader of the Idaho Conservation League who has served as executive director since 2018.
Idaho Conservation League
This is a non-profit organization founded in 1973 that focuses on environmental protection throughout the state of Idaho.
The details
Washburn returns to the organization after previously serving there from 2006 to 2015. She succeeds Justin Hayes, who has led the Idaho Conservation League since 2018.
Timeline
The Idaho Conservation League was founded in 1973.
Washburn worked at the Idaho Conservation League from 2006 to 2015.
Washburn led Conservation Voters for Idaho from 2015 to 2020.
Justin Hayes began leading the organization in 2018.
Washburn assumes her role as executive director on October 28, 2026.
Market Landscape
The transition within the Idaho Conservation League follows a period of stable leadership under outgoing director Justin Hayes. The move positions the organization to continue its advocacy efforts within the regional non-profit sector.
Supporters and stakeholders of the organization can expect a change in executive leadership starting late October. This move may influence future advocacy priorities for the group's 30,000 members.
The takeaway
Leadership transitions in regional advocacy groups are significant moments for members who track environmental policy developments. Washburn brings two decades of experience to the role as the organization enters its next phase of operations.
Further reading
For more information on organizational shifts, visit People.
Live Poll
Do you trust that new leadership will maintain the effectiveness of your local conservation organizations?
