Melissa Johnston, AICP, CFM
Staff Planner
She/Her
Melissa brings firsthand city planning experience to the MFA team. She has worked as a current and long-range planner for cities in both Washington and Oregon and remembers well what it’s like to wear many hats as a public servant for a small jurisdiction. She is experienced in shoreline and floodplain management for local governments…
I grew up climbing trees, hiking, and loving nature as many of us are lucky to do in the Pacific Northwest. When I left home to study forestry at the University of Washington in Seattle, I learned I loved the city, too! I chose to study urban and regional planning in graduate school and pursue a career in planning because I wanted to find more ways to bring nature and sustainable living into the city.
I grew up climbing trees, hiking, and loving nature as many of us are lucky to do in the Pacific Northwest. When I left home to study forestry at the University of Washington in Seattle, I learned I loved the city, too! I chose to study urban and regional planning in graduate school and pursue a career in planning because I wanted to find more ways to bring nature and sustainable living into the city.
Full Bio
Who is Melissa Johnston, AICP, CFM?
Melissa brings firsthand city planning experience to the MFA team. She has worked as a current and long-range planner for cities in both Washington and Oregon and remembers well what it’s like to wear many hats as a public servant for a small jurisdiction. She is experienced in shoreline and floodplain management for local governments and embraces the challenge of balancing urban development and environmental protection. Before becoming a planner, Melissa spent ten years working in environmental outreach where she conducted waste audits and coordinated waste reduction education programs for local governments.
Melissa enjoys advocating for the urban forest and can often be found on the weekend planting trees with local nonprofits. When she’s not volunteering, you’ll find her playing bluegrass guitar.
Education
Bachelor of Science in Forest Resources, University of Washington
Master of Urban and Regional Planning, Portland State University
Certifications
American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP)
Certified Floodplain Manager: No. US-23-12699
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