Michele Lenhard, Big Cypress Basin Board Member
SOUTH FLORIDA WATER MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
Michele Lenhard was appointed to the Big Cypress Basin Board in August 2025 by Governor Ron DeSantis. She is the former owner of Eagle Business Archives, LLC and is an active member of the Southwest Florida community.
In addition to her role on the Big Cypress Basin Board, Michele serves as the Chair of the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee. She is also a member of the Friends of Barefoot Beach Board of Directors, where she serves as the Naturalist Program Chair.
Michele has a passion for conservation. After moving to Collier County in 2015, Michele completed her training as a Florida Master Naturalist and she began leading educational programs at Barefoot Beach.
In 2019, Michele was appointed to the Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee, which is responsible for developing an active acquisition list consistent with the goals of the Conservation Collier Program. She has proudly served as the committee’s chair since January 2023. In addition, Michele is the chair of the group’s Ordinance, Policy and Rules Subcommittee and serves as a member of the Outreach and Lands Management subcommittees.
Before relocating to Collier County, Michele lived in Ridgewood, New Jersey, where she served on the local Board of Education for many years. During her tenure on the board, Michele was the liaison to several State educational initiatives and achieved certification as a Master Board Member from New Jersey School Boards.
Michele holds a bachelor’s degree in aquatic environments from Allegheny College.
Early in her career, Michele worked in the scientific instrument industry. Later, Michele and her husband owned and operated a records and information management company in New Jersey. They also owned several commercial real estate entities in the New York metro area.
In her free time, Michele enjoys visiting Southwest Florida’s natural areas. These visits have enhanced her understanding of the delicate balance between the preservation of our natural resources and the commitment to the community living within them.
Current Term: August 2025 – March 2026
Contact Address:
Big Cypress Basin Service Center
2660 North Horseshoe Drive, Suite 101A
Naples, FL 34104
Phone: (239) 263-7615
Email: mlenhard@sfwmd.gov
Areas Represented: Collier County and portions of Monroe County
Appointed By: Governor Ron DeSantis
Original Appointment: August 2025
Education:
• B.S. Aquatic Environments – Allegheny College
Occupation: Retired; Owner of Eagle Business Archives, LLC
Professional, Business and Service Affiliations:
• Chair, Conservation Collier Land Acquisition Advisory Committee
• Member, Friends of Barefoot Beach Board of Directors
Past Affiliations:
• Member, Ridgewood Board of Education in New Jersey