Contact

Michael Huth, On Tour Manager (530) 265-5961 ext. 230

Michael grew up immersed in the marshes and woodlands of Southern Wisconsin, where a lifelong love for nature took root. He earned a BFA in Marketing and Business Administration in Milwaukee before heading to Southern California to work in the entertainment industry. Over the years, he held roles as a talent agent, business affairs manager, and producer, honing his talent for connecting people and driving growth across organizations.

Eventually, Michael’s path led him away from Hollywood and into the Sierra Nevada, where his passion for environmental impact work took hold. Witnessing rapid changes to the natural places he loved, he pivoted to focus on building bridges between industries, advancing sustainable initiatives, and community-driven solutions that foster environmental stewardship.

Michael is certified in Natural Building and Permaculture Design and is an active LIFT Economy alumnus. Outside of work, he’s often found working on his six-acre property in Nevada City, serving on the board of a local theater company, or exploring thrift shops for hidden gems.

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Valentín Mera, Operations Manager (530) 265-5961 

Born in Quito, Ecuador to a Peruvian mother, Valentín was raised across Mexico, Peru, Switzerland, and the United States—an upbringing that shaped his global outlook and cultural adaptability. With over two decades of experience in operations, production, management and creative strategy, Valentín has held leadership roles within major media and entertainment networks, including Viacom, Netflix, and Telemundo. His segment La Transformación de Valentín Mera for NBC Telemundo was nominated for an Emmy, a recognition of both his storytelling vision and commitment to authentic representation.

After years of working and traveling internationally, Valentín has happily relocated to Nevada County to be closer to family and build a rooted life in this beautiful community. In his current role as Operations Manager, he brings a unique blend of logistical precision, creative insight, and organizational leadership to drive impactful work from concept to completion.

Valentín is also affiliated with Sony Music and The Orchard, contributing as a songwriter and producer for music placed in films and streaming series—an extension of his lifelong passion for music and media. On weekends, he enjoys composing, cooking, and exploring the natural beauty of the region alongside his four beloved dogs.

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Ana Becerra, Senior Development Manager (530) 265-5961 

Ana was born in Bogotá, Colombia, and by age seven had already lived on four continents. She later settled in Key Biscayne, Florida, where she discovered her love for the ocean and scuba diving. She went on to make her way to California and now calls Tahoe home. She spends her time playing in the mountains and traveling the world with her two sons in search of small waves and good food.

After earning her MS in Health Psychology, Ana began her career at the UCLA Neuropsychiatric Institute and then served on the Committee on Clinical Investigations at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Following the birth of her first son, she was inspired to help create a healthier, more sustainable planet.

At Global Green USA, Ana worked on a range of projects including climate change advocacy, green schools, and energy policy. She then joined Shine On Sierra Leone, where she helped launch the organization’s first Waves for Water clean water initiative and served as an integral ground team member in Sierra Leone. Most recently, Ana provided leadership and strategic direction across Autism Partnership Foundation’s philanthropic initiatives, communications, and donor portfolio.

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Rebecca Walters, On Tour Coordinator & Programmer

Aaron grew up swimming and playing in the creeks and rivers near his coastal home in a small town in Humboldt County. Predictably, he found his way to working as a raft guide. He was a raft guide on rivers throughout the Sierra Nevada for nearly ten years.

Predictably, he found his way to working as a raft guide. He was a raft guide on rivers throughout the Sierra Nevada for nearly ten years, and even met his wife (also a guide) while working on the South Fork of the American. In addition to guiding, Aaron worked ski patrol and construction. After many years playing and working seasonally, the future began to call. Aaron is a Geographer at heart. He has completed three degrees in Geography; a BA at the University of Colorado at Boulder, a MA at the University of Denver, and a PhD at the University of Oregon. His academic training and research are in fluvial geomorphology and remote sensing. Aaron has taught a variety of courses including remote sensing, geomorphology, climatology, and geographic information systems. In addition, he has been involved in river research projects across the western US, and internationally. Aaron’s drive to protect and improve the health of the West’s watersheds led him to SYRCL.

Initially Aaron was SYRCL’s Watershed Science Director. In 2023, he became SYRCL’s Executive Director. When not working, Aaron can almost certainly be found outdoors playing on the water with his wife. Whitewater kayaking and rafting, skiing, surfing, and mountain biking keep Aaron busy year-round. Aaron also enjoys cooking and baking.

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