Sam Evans

Senior Attorney and Leader of SELC's National Forests and Parks Program

A fixture in the Asheville office since 2011, Sam supports and coordinates the work of SELC’s Forest Team and national forest policy advocacy. He also protects conservation values affected by U.S. Forest Service decision-making in the Nantahala, Pisgah, and Cherokee National Forests. 

“SELC doesn’t just engage on particular projects or threats; we protect the structures that ensure the public has a voice in the first place,” he said. “I’m most proud of our ongoing work to defend the National Environmental Policy Act, which is under attack like never before. Without that law’s protections, bad projects would go forward without science-based review or public notice and comment.” 

Sam grew up in Jasper, Ala., and a special place for him in his home state is the Sipsey Wilderness in the Bankhead National Forest. This was Sam’s introduction to national forests and wilderness areas “and it’s where I fell in love with wild places,” he said. “The old growth forests and backcountry areas of the Southern Appalachians are where you’ll find me on the weekends. I am honored to be able to work for their protection during the week.”

Previous Experience

• U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Tennessee, magistrate clerk 
• J.D., University of Tennessee College of Law, highest honors; B.A., University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
•  With SELC since 2011