Blaise Pezold

Blaise Pezold, the Chair of the Crescent Soil and Water Conservation District in Louisiana, did not start out in conservation. A previous career as a chef shifted after Hurricane Katrina. His interest in disasters and natural resources  changed his perspective and pushed him to go back to school for a degree in coastal biology. 

Blaise hopes to sharpen his leadership skills through being a cohort member. “As a leader, you have your strengths and weaknesses, and I hope to learn how to strengthen my weaknesses,” Blaise shared. 

He is also excited to build fellowship amongst his cohort members and travel the country. The Crescent Soil and Water Conservation District is currently in a coastal crisis, with community members concerned about their houses flooding along the coastline. The district is seeking ways to help the community through this crisis. Blaise has focused on projects, preparing a coastal plan. 

Blaise is also involved in local committees and organizations. He is also focused on his family and is most proud of his daughter for pursuing and chasing her goals. “I have instilled in her an independence and pushed her to be the kind of goal setter who's going to make the most of life,” he shared.