President's Message - Winter 2026

As we begin a new year, AEP wishes all of our members a safe, healthy, and happy 2026! I’m genuinely energized by the momentum our Board and Committees are carrying into the year—and especially excited to kick off my final full year as AEP President alongside such a dedicated group of volunteers and professionals.

In 2026, community is our North Star. We are asking ourselves an important question: How do we intentionally foster a stronger sense of connection, encouragement, and support within AEP? You can read more about what “community” means to us, and the first steps we’re taking, by checking out this quarter’s People & Culture update: https://www.califaep.org/people.php

One exciting way we’re putting this into action is through the second edition of the AEP Professional Mentorship Program. Applications are now open for early-, mid-, and established-career professionals (with our student mentorship program launching in March 2026). This program is designed to be flexible, inclusive, and mutually beneficial. Participants can serve as both mentor and mentee, creating space for shared learning and connection across career stages. The application deadline is Friday, February 20, 2026. Learn more and apply here: https://www.califaep.org/mentorship_program.php

Community also shows up in how we connect month to month. I encourage you to join us at our free, members-only Meetups, which continue to grow in both participation and purpose:

  • Early Career Meetup (February 10 at noon) – with a general focus for those just starting out, entering the profession, or making a career pivot
  • Rural Connex (February 12 at noon) – where we get to chat about planning and environmental issues often overlooked outside metropolitan areas
  • A third Meetup is coming soon, with a focus on leaders and managers at all levels

All members are welcome, and participants help shape each session based on their needs and interests. Registration is available under “Upcoming Events” on our homepage: https://califaep.org/

By mid-February, members can also expect to receive their 2026 CEQA Statutes and Guidelines in the mail. Every paid member in good standing receives a complimentary copy, and I want to extend heartfelt thanks to ICF International, and especially Terry Rivasplata and Elizabeth Irvin, for their tremendous work producing and editing this essential resource. We are particularly grateful for Mr. Rivasplata’s CEQA case law and legislative summaries, as well as Grant Reddy (PlaceWorks) for graphic design support. Additional copies are available through the CEQA Bookstore: https://mms.califaep.org/members/store.php?orgcode=CAEP

Our CEQA Advanced Workshops are scheduled for late February and early March. Special thanks go to Greta Brownlow (Ascent Environmental) for serving as Curriculum Coordinator, and to Ascent Environmental for convening a broad network of CEQA professionals each year to help develop timely, relevant workshop content. Agendas and locations are available in this issue of the Environmental Monitor and online: https://www.califaep.org/2026_advanced_ceqa_workshop.php

At the policy level, our Legislative Review Committee, working closely with our lobbyist Matt Klopfenstein, continues to track and analyze CEQA-related legislation in 2026. The committee is also preparing for AEP’s annual Day at the Capitol, taking place March 9–11, when members will meet with legislators to discuss key CEQA and environmental policy issues.

Looking ahead, the AEP 2026 Conference will be held April 23–26 at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel & Marina, right on the beautiful San Diego Bay. Sponsorship opportunities are still available, and this event remains one of the best ways to connect with and showcase services to more than 400 environmental professionals. Thank you to our outstanding 2026 Conference Committee for their work bringing this event together. Registration and hotel reservations are open and filling quickly: https://www.califaep.org/2026_aep_conference.php

Later this spring and summer, the AEP Webinar Series will run from May through September and include our AEP Symposium (focused on evolving housing issues), How to Write an EIR, NEPA Essentials, and a new Noise and Vibration program.

I hope you continue to find value in the many benefits AEP offers, from the CEQA Portal and Environmental Assessor to the Environmental Leadership Chronicles podcast, along with our in-person and virtual training opportunities designed to support professional growth.

If you’re interested in becoming more involved, there are many opportunities at both the chapter and state levels. We always welcome feedback and ideas, and I encourage you to connect with any chapter or State Board member. You may also reach out to our Executive Director, Lynne Bynder directly at lbynder@califaep.org for additional support.

Thank you for your continued dedication to AEP—and for being part of this community.

Warm regards,
Mindy Fogg
AEP President

Updated Feb 5, 2026 by Reid Walley