Michael Leff is an environmental consultant with broad experience across conservation, ecological restoration, community forestry, watershed protection, and related realms.

Michael founded Ecological Connections in 2015 after returning to his natural habitat in New England, following many years working in the Philadelphia region.

His professional background includes roles with various environmental organizations, public agencies, and nonprofits, alongside a long parallel career in writing and editorial work. Most recently, from 2020 to 2025, he served as Executive Director of the Massachusetts Association of Conservation Districts (MACD), supporting the statewide association and its member districts across Massachusetts.

Michael is actively engaged in cross-border conservation and river restoration efforts in Western Massachusetts and Southern Vermont, working across organizational and jurisdictional boundaries in support of regional and highly local initiatives.

Earlier professional experience includes work with the Davey Institute at the U.S. Forest Service Field Station in Philadelphia, as well as positions with the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, and Awbury Arboretum. This experience includes both hands-on land stewardship and leadership roles. Michael holds a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Virginia and has been involved with the Society for Ecological Restoration and related professional organizations in various capacities.

Current consulting focus → Services