Staff Spotlight: Jenn Carhuarmaca

Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s (IRC) work to restore and protect the health of Orange County’s urban wildlands is driven by the dedicated people who work behind the scenes to care for the land every day. Among them is Jenn Carhuarmaca of the Wildfire Prevention Program, whose leadership in coordinating and strengthening key partnerships across agencies plays a vital role in safeguarding local habitats. Jenn’s commitment, collaboration and willingness to go above and beyond make her an invaluable member of the IRC team. We are grateful for team members like Jenn who bring IRC’s mission to life.

How long have you worked for IRC?

I’ve been with IRC since August 2024, working as a Program Coordinator in the Wildfire Prevention Program.

Can you give us a short summary of your work history/experience?

I graduated from San Diego State University in 2020 with a B.S. in Criminal Justice and a B.A. in International Security & Conflict Resolution, specializing in Environment & Security. During my time there, I participated in several student-led environmental organizations and interned with community-based nonprofits, including I Love A Clean San Diego. In 2020, I moved to Irvine to pursue a Master of Public Policy at UC Irvine. There, I concentrated on environmental policy and partnered with the City of Irvine on a capstone project to develop educational resources for organic waste recycling. After graduating, I worked as a Policy Coordinator for a culturally specific organization dedicated to community advocacy and engagement in Santa Ana, which ultimately led me to IRC!

Can you give us a short summary of your current job duties?

My current role involves building and strengthening partnerships across our programs! I help coordinate our summer internship program with Golden West College, and this year we were excited to expand the partnership to include students from UC Irvine’s Department of Chicano/Latino Studies. I also support our partnership with the Delhi Center and contribute to projects led by our Community Engagement & Education program.

Additionally, I work with the Wildland-Urban Interface Climate Action Network (WUICAN), a collaborative network of more than 20 partners, including community organizations, Indigenous-led groups, California Native American Tribes, land managers, and universities. Within the Wildfire Prevention program, I support the team on projects funded through the California Department of Conservation’s Regional Forest & Fire Capacity (RFFC) Program. RFFC focuses on developing wildfire resilience priority projects in different regions throughout the state, with IRC coordinating Orange County’s efforts. 

What has been your favorite aspect of working at IRC?

I love being able to work on creative projects with staff and our partners! One project I’ve especially enjoyed is an interactive plant-along guidebook (or “zine”) called The Homegrown Series. It’s been a fun and collaborative way to bring ideas to life in a more creative format. We’ve produced two zines so far. One was developed with Orange County Environmental Justice and highlights Buckwheat and Telegraphweed, two native plant species used in the organization’s bioremediation work. The other was created in collaboration with Laguna Canyon Foundation and focuses on wildfire resilience and fire-smart native plant landscaping.

Do you have a favorite Landmark or trail? Or is there an area that you’re excited to explore on the Landmarks?

My favorite Landmark is Buck Gully Reserve. When I moved to Orange County, Buck Gully Trail was one of the first hikes I went on, and I spent a lot of time there while I was settling into my new surroundings. Now that I work at IRC and have learned more about the reserve and the work being done there, the trail feels even more meaningful. It’s one of those places that makes things feel full circle for me.

What do you like to do outside of work for fun?

I’ve been really into pottery lately! I also love going to local craft and vintage markets, hanging out with my friends at book club, and of course, spending time in nature. At home, I’m either playing video games, crocheting and catching up on a show (anything animated), or hanging out with my pet snake.

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Jenn’s behind‑the‑scenes leadership ensures critical efforts move forward smoothly, helping ensure the land thrives for generations to come. IRC is grateful for all she brings to the organization. Thank you for all that you do!