Father. Farmer. Planner. Working together for Whatcom County’s future.
The Port of Bellingham is entering a pivotal period. Decisions about jobs, infrastructure, industrial growth, the airport, and long-term investment will shape Whatcom County for decades to come.
Chris brings more than twelve years of experience helping communities navigate complex challenges involving land, agriculture, water, infrastructure, and long-term planning. Throughout his career, he has worked with farmers, local governments, tribal communities, agencies, and residents to find practical solutions and move important work forward.
As a father, farmer, planner, and community leader, Chris understands that thoughtful decisions today shape the communities future generations inherit.
Experience that fits
Chris has spent years working in public service, both at the county and regional level, helping communities balance long-term planning, economic opportunity, and stewardship.
Chris has secured over $3.3 million in state and federal funding and more than $200,000 in private support for community priorities and led coordination across agriculture, water resources, habitat, and land use planning efforts.
He understands how public decisions get made and how to bring interests together to deliver results.
Farmland Preservation Program Manager - King County Department of Natural Resources & Parks
Watershed Management Senior Planner - Whatcom County Public Works
Purchase of Development Rights Program Administrator - Whatcom County Planning & Development Services
Professional Experience
Chris believes strong communities grow through education, participation, and investing in people. He has dedicated years to helping communities learn, grow, and build stronger local connection.
Instructor - Washington State University Extension
Adjunct Faculty - Western Washington University
Co-Founder & Chair - Twin Sister Market
Co-Founder & Chair - Coastal Farmland Trust
Vice President - Northwest Chapter of River Management Society
Administrative Chair - Washington State Food Policy Forum
Volunteer - Nooksack flood recovery efforts
Community & Leadership
Agriculture & Working Lands
Chris has spent much of his career working directly with farmers and helping strengthen the future of agriculture in Washington. He supports agricultural conservation, farmland access efforts, and helped new & beginning farmers build successful operations.
Owner - Rivershed SPC
Farm & Production Manager - Viva Farms
Chair & Committee Member - Community Food Co-op Farm Fund
Rooted in Whatcom
Chris moved to the South Fork Valley to start a farm and raise his two daughters.
Like many families in Whatcom County, Chris wanted a place where hard work, community, and connection to the land still matter. Over time, he came to know and work alongside farmers, fishers, foresters, and community leaders throughout the county — experiences that shaped both his career and his understanding of what people care about most.
Chris believes people may not always agree on every issue, but they often want many of the same things: strong communities, economic opportunity, healthy landscapes, and a future where families can build a life and stay here.