Matt Simonelli

Co-Director, Terrestrial Invasive Species Specialist

Matt’s dynamic leadership has been essential in restoring the Restore Native Plants’ restoration sites into thriving wildlife sanctuaries. He has directed the removal of 810,088 invasive plants, allowing the introduction of native plants with high wildlife value. His efforts have also saved over 1,497 native trees. One of Matt’s most impressive accomplishments is the transformation of a 3-acre infestation of Chinese wisteria into a biodiverse native plant reserve.

Matt is a public champion of the critical need to remove invasive species due to the threats they pose to our environment. Since joining Restore Native Plants in 2017 as the invasive species program director, he has shared his passion and knowledge with interns and volunteers of all ages.

Matt continuously sharpens his skills and knowledge in invasive species management and biocontrol, ensuring full compliance with state-level best management practices. He earned a Terrestrial Invasive Plant Management Certificate from the North American Invasive Species Management Association, and he holds a Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s license with the NJDEP.

Before joining the Restore Native Plants team, Matt worked at the New York-New Jersey Trail Conference, gaining a solid foundation in invasive species management techniques through fieldwork and hands-on experience. He graduated cum laude from William Paterson University.

Matt enjoys working outdoors, traveling, hiking tall mountains, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities. He is always excited to learn more about the natural world and enjoys inspiring others to restore their properties with native plants.

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

Please accept our thanks for your thoughtful gift. We are moved by your generosity.

Your gesture serves as a reminder of the kindness of the American people, and we are grateful for your support of our shared vision for our Nation’s future.

Thank you, again, for your gift. We wish you all the best.

Sincerely,

THE WHITE HOUSE

WASHINGTON

August 30, 2017

Dr. Benjamin M. Burton

Oakland, New Jersey

Dear Dr. Burton,

Thank you for sharing your views on energy and environmental policy.

My Administration is strongly committed to environmental protection, including keeping our air and water clean and being good stewards of our environment. This requires all of us to do our part, and I want to thank you for your commitment to preserving our environment for future generations.

As we continue to protect our environment, we must also ensure that American workers have greater opportunities to provide for their families. That is why my Administration is also committed to protecting American workers and American companies from unnecessary regulatory burdens. Going forward, regulations must balance our stewardship of the environment with the needs of a growing economy.

Thank you again for sharing your views. As President, I am committed to unleashing America’s economic potential, while also protecting the environment. I am confident that together we can preserve America’s natural blessings for future generations.

Sincerely,