Staff Spotlight: Mel Letterman

At Irvine Ranch Conservancy (IRC), the mission to restore and protect the health of Orange County’s urban wildlands is powered by the incredible people who care for the Landmarks every day. Among them is Mel Letterman from the Plant Materials team, whose work helps make restoration possible. From collecting data to cultivating plant material to researching priority species, Mel plays a key role in supporting healthy ecosystems across the landscape. We are grateful for dedicated team members like Mel who help bring our mission to life! 

How long have you worked for IRC?

I have worked at Irvine Ranch Conservancy for almost three years now! I started as a Seasonal Technician and am now a full-time Program Coordinator with the Plant Materials program.

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

For college, I went to Orange Coast College (OCC) and fell in love with our local ecosystems through different field courses, taking me from the Mojave Desert to Santa Cruz Island. During that time, I worked at Fairview Park in Costa Mesa doing community-based habitat restoration. I transferred to CSU Fullerton (CSUF), where I managed the MacFadden Herbarium and oversaw the imaging and transcription of historic and local plant vouchers. Additionally, I worked as a biological assistant for the CSUF Biology Greenhouse, where I maintained the living collections for research and class use. Now, I am a board member with the Orange County chapter of the California Native Plant Society, where I procure speakers for monthly programs, lead field trips, collect herbarium specimens throughout the county and do many other plant-related outreach and activities.

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

My job is all things seed! I am in charge of processing all the seed collected throughout the year, searching for new plant populations that we can collect from on IRC’s managed open spaces, collecting seed on the farm and in the open space, propagating plants in the nursery and maintaining the farm.

What drew you to a career at IRC?

I wanted to work in a place that was actively restoring Orange County’s open space areas. I have lived in the area my entire life, and its ecosystem is so special. IRC’s mission of enhancing and connecting the community to the land was aligned with the work I wanted to be a part of.

What has been your favorite aspect of working at IRC?

I have two favorite parts: 1. I love the cross-collaboration between departments, so I can learn about different aspects of what we are doing at IRC and further my own personal knowledge to share with others. 2. Being able to work outside every day is so recharging. I am so lucky that within the last three years, I have been able to work on the farm every day. It has really opened my eyes to appreciate Southern California’s seasonal shifts and ecosystem as a whole.

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

All the areas we manage are so special, but I have a soft spot for Weir Canyon. There are so many different habitat types converging together because of its proximity to the inland side of the Santa Anas. The area shifts between oak woodland, coastal sage scrub, grassland and chaparral, and each area brings some really unique plants.

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

Outside of work, you will primarily find me hiking or camping (especially in the desert), learning about new plants, rocks and other critters. Additionally, I love reading and exploring libraries, going to see a movie and searching for fun finds at the thrift store.

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Mel’s hard work and expertise are a huge part of what keeps the Plant Materials team thriving, and IRC could not be more thankful. Mel, your commitment makes a real difference every day. Thank you for all you contribute!