Steve Cochran

Work

As the Director for Environmental Defense Fund’s Mississippi River Delta Restoration project, Steve Cochran works to restore the natural functioning of the river while addressing the needs and health of southern Louisiana’s diverse communities and economic infrastructure. With local, state and federal attention turning towards this delta, executing a strategy for its timely and responsible large scale restoration is crucial. In addition, Steve works within Louisiana and nationally to encourage communities, economic interests and political leaders to see delta restoration as a fundamental priority to the nation.

Steve spent two years as Executive Director of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation in New Orleans, Louisiana, and seven years with Louisiana Congressman and then Governor Buddy Roemer. He served as Legislative Director in D.C., then Field Director, and ultimately Chief of Staff to the Governor. 

In his prior role as Vice President of Climate and Air at Environmental Defense Fund, Steve Cochran managed EDF's domestic and international efforts to reduce greenhouse gases and air pollution. Steve served as the Executive Vice President of our 501 c(4) organization, the Environmental Defense Action Fund (EDAF), and was the Political Director of EDAF's Political Action Committee. He formerly served as the director of the National Climate Campaign. Prior to that, Steve managed EDF's media, legislative and Internet advocacy work and served as Environmental Defense's legislative director.

Background

• Senior Policy Analyst for the Office of Air and Radiation at the U.S. EPA (1992-1997)
• Executive Director at the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation (1990-1992)
• Chief of Staff for Governor Buddy Roemer of Louisiana (1988-1990)
• Field Director for Roemer for Governor Campaign (1987-1988)
• Legislative Director for Congressman Roemer (1984-1987)

Steve has also served since 1997 on the Campaigns and Elections Committee of the League of Conservation Voters.

Degrees

B.S., Louisiana State University