Idaho Conservation League to Appoint New Executive Leader
The 30,000-supporter organization will install Courtney Washburn as executive director, signaling a potential shift in strategy.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in People
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Courtney Washburn will become the new executive director of the Idaho Conservation League on October 28. She succeeds outgoing leader Justin Hayes to manage the organization's staff of 28 employees.
Why it matters
The change in leadership shifts the trajectory for an organization with 30,000 supporters and significant influence on state conservation policy. Operators should monitor how Washburn's public sector background influences the league's legislative engagement.
The Idaho Conservation League supports 30,000 members with a staff of 28 employees. Washburn brings 25 years of conservation leadership experience to the position.
The players
Courtney Washburn
Incoming executive director with 25 years of experience in conservation leadership and municipal government.
Idaho Conservation League
A state-wide conservation organization with 30,000 supporters and 28 employees.
Justin Hayes
The outgoing executive director who has led the organization since 2018.
The details
The appointment follows an on-site interview process involving both staff and board members. Washburn previously served as chief of staff for the city of Boise and led Conservation Voters for Idaho, providing experience in municipal operations and advocacy. The organization maintains offices in Ketchum, McCall, Sandpoint, and Washington state, which the new executive director will oversee.
Timeline
The Idaho Conservation League was founded in 1973.
Courtney Washburn worked at the Idaho Conservation League from 2006 to 2015.
Courtney Washburn led Conservation Voters for Idaho from 2015 to 2020.
Justin Hayes began leading the organization in 2018.
Courtney Washburn assumes the role of executive director on October 28, 2026.
Market Landscape
This appointment marks the first change in top leadership at the Idaho Conservation League since the 2018 transition under Justin Hayes. The shift follows a period of stability for the organization, which has operated since 1973.
Operators in sectors impacted by conservation regulations should prepare for a potential shift in advocacy strategy under new leadership. Monitoring early policy positions will be essential for assessing future regulatory risks.
The takeaway
Washburn's transition from the Boise mayor's office suggests a focus on aligning conservation goals with municipal and regional growth policies. Stakeholders should track the organization's initial statements on policy priorities after the October 28 transition.
Further reading
For more on shifts in state-level leadership, see our coverage of People.
Live Poll
Do you trust that new leadership will maintain the effectiveness of your local conservation organizations?
