John Beavers
About John Beavers
John Beavers serves as the Executive Director of the Amazon Conservation Association and has a strong background in conservation efforts in Latin America, including leadership roles at the National Audubon Society and The Nature Conservancy.
Work at Amazon Conservation Association
John Beavers has served as the Executive Director of the Amazon Conservation Association since 2019. In this role, he oversees various initiatives aimed at preserving the Amazon rainforest and its biodiversity. His leadership focuses on implementing strategic conservation efforts that address environmental challenges in the region. Beavers' experience in international conservation enhances the organization's mission to protect critical habitats and promote sustainable practices.
Leadership at National Audubon Society
Before joining the Amazon Conservation Association, John Beavers held the position of Vice President and Director of the International Alliances Program at the National Audubon Society from 2011 to 2019. He led Audubon's international conservation efforts, focusing on protecting key bird habitats and biodiversity in Latin America and the Caribbean. During his tenure, he launched Audubon’s first international conservation strategy, strengthening the organization's global impact.
Experience with The Nature Conservancy
John Beavers worked for seventeen years at The Nature Conservancy, holding various leadership roles focused on conservation in Latin America. His positions included Director of PROARCA/APM for the Central America Region, Director of the Guatemala Country Program, and Associate Director of Conservation Programs for Latin America. Beavers played a significant role in national conservation finance and policy actions, including facilitating a $24.4 million debt-swap between the Guatemalan and US Governments.
Educational Background
John Beavers holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Rutgers University, where he studied from 1982 to 1986. He furthered his education by obtaining a Master’s degree in Natural Resource Economics from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, completing his studies from 1992 to 1994. His academic background provides a strong foundation for his work in conservation and environmental policy.
Conservation Initiatives and Impact
Throughout his career, John Beavers has focused on on-the-ground conservation efforts in Latin America, particularly in the Maya Forest of Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico. He developed and led a $2.6 million bird-based tourism partnership with the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), which aimed to promote sustainable tourism while supporting conservation efforts. His work has contributed to strengthening conservation organizations across the region.