WEST Leadership

Dale Strickland, WEST’s Founder and Principal Ecologist, holds a Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of Wyoming. With over 40 years of experience in ecological research and wildlife management, he specializes in impact assessment, threatened species studies, and natural resource conservation. Dale has authored over 150 scientific papers and contributed to key environmental publications, including the Wildlife Techniques Manual and Wildlife Study Design. He has also served as an advisor on national environmental committees and for organizations like the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Dale remains a leading voice in environmental consulting, bridging science with policy and conservation efforts.

Lyman McDonald co-founded WEST in 1990 after an academic career in biostatistics at Kansas State University and the University of Wyoming. As a biometrician, he specialized in wildlife population modeling, sampling techniques, and natural resource damage assessments. Lyman co-authored over 100 scientific publications, including Resource Selection by Animals, a foundational text in ecological statistics. Although retired since 2020, he maintains connected with WEST, contributing his expertise to ongoing discussions. His work has shaped how wildlife data is analyzed across North America.

Clayton Derby, WEST’s CEO, has been with the company since 1995, guiding strategic growth and operational excellence. With a background in biology and an master’s in Zoology and Physiology, he has managed large-scale environmental projects across the US, including wind energy and natural gas developments. As CEO, Clayton collaborates with the Executive Team to drive WEST’s mission and foster a culture of scientific integrity. He played a key role in expanding WEST’s presence by establishing the Bismarck, North Dakota, office. Clayton’s leadership emphasizes teamwork, innovation, and client-focused solutions.

Deby Forry serves as WEST’s CFO and General Counsel, overseeing finance, legal, and contract operations. With over 35 years of experience in corporate finance, mergers, and environmental consulting, she brings strategic expertise to WEST’s leadership. A University of Wyoming graduate with a J.D., Deby has received numerous accolades, including the Wyoming Woman of Influence for Energy and Utilities. She is passionate about mentoring professionals and supporting leadership development.

As Chief Operating Officer and President of the Board at WEST, J.R. Boehrs brings nearly two decades of experience and leadership to the organization. Since joining in 2007, J.R. has held key roles including GIS Specialist, Operations Manager, and Board Secretary, Vice President, and now President. In his role as COO, J.R. oversees business operations, working closely with senior leadership to ensure systems and processes support high-quality service delivery and continuous improvement. As Board President, he guides corporate strategic goals, fosters a positive workplace culture, and upholds WEST’s mission and core principles. J.R. holds an MBA from Colorado State University and a BA in Geography–Natural Resources Management from the University of Wyoming.

Shay Howlin is a Service Director and Vice President of WEST’s Board of Directors, with over 20 years of experience in ecological statistics and data science. She specializes in designing technical solutions for complex environmental projects and has led initiatives to improve client deliverables and team performance. Shay holds a master’s in Statistics from Oregon State University and a bachelor’s in Wildlife and Fisheries Science from Penn State. She is committed to mentoring future leaders and enhancing WEST’s quality standards. Her leadership blends scientific rigor with strategic vision.

Todd Mattson, a Principal Ecologist and Service Director at WEST, specializes in conservation planning and environmental regulatory compliance. With expertise in renewable energy, he advises clients on National Environmental Policy Act and Endangered Species Act compliance. Prior to WEST, Todd held leadership roles at Element Power and HDR Engineering, managing environmental permitting for large-scale projects. He provides strategic guidance on environmental risks and permitting strategies. Todd’s work supports sustainable development while protecting natural resources.

Kim Bay, a Senior Scientist and Service Director at WEST, has been with the company since 2001. She leads wildlife impact studies related to wind energy, specializing in avian and bat risk assessments. Kim has managed large-scale databases and contributed to peer-reviewed research on wildlife impacts from energy development. She earned her master’s in Statistics from the University of Wyoming, combining data science with ecological research. Kim’s leadership ensures WEST’s projects are grounded in robust scientific analysis.

David Young, Principal Biologist at WEST, has been with the company since 1992, serving in roles from field biologist to CEO. He specializes in avian biology, Endangered Species Act compliance, and wind-wildlife impact assessments. David holds a master’s in Zoology from the University of Georgia and has led projects across North America and Latin America. His expertise spans threatened species research and environmental policy consulting. David also serves as Treasurer on WEST’s Board of Directors, contributing to strategic planning and growth.

Luke Martinson is a Senior Manager/Biologist and Board Director. He has worked as an environmental consultant for more than 22 years, supporting people and projects across the US. Luke brings broad industry experience in renewable energy, oil and gas, mining, transportation, water management, and research and conservation planning. He supports responsible development backed by critical thinking and sound science. His technical expertise is highlighted through his leadership on WEST’s Wetland Practice Group and co-authorship on publications that evaluate advanced conservation practices as a means to reduce eagle and wind interactions. Beyond technical knowledge, Luke is a proven leader at WEST, focusing on staff mentorship and growth, efficient process development, and business diversification.

Nick Bartok is a Senior Biologist and Board Member at WEST, managing environmental projects across Canada. He specializes in avian biology, wildlife permitting, and regulatory compliance, with expertise in Canadian environmental laws. Nick holds a master’s from the University of Western Ontario, focusing on wetland bird ecology. Before joining WEST, he led wildlife teams at Tetra Tech, conducting research in diverse ecosystems. Nick’s work bridges scientific research with practical environmental management solutions.