Autumn Bernhardt Bio
Working at disciplinary and cultural crossroads gives me a unique perspective. I have thrown hay to cattle in freezing temperatures and I have also have worked with fish biologists on ecosystem protection. I have litigated state water rights and taught everyone from community college students to law students. My experiences are diverse, but they help me see which strategies offer the best chance of resolving environmental and social dilemmas. To assist clients in their stewardship journey, I leverage 20+ years as a state and tribal government attorney, small-scale rancher, teacher, author, and speaker.
After working on cases that span decades (and sometimes generations), I have learned a few things. Even necessary litigation can be costly, drawn out, and produce unpredictable results. Now, I take a different approach. I do not represent clients in a legal capacity but instead assist governments, organizations, and businesses to prevent and mitigate conflict through training. I also provide ongoing support through environmental planning and independent evaluation. Lastly, I assist clients regain their power through Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) . ADR processes offer a less formal, and potentially more creative and effective means to resolve disputes.
What I have discovered from researching and applying policy, as well as stewarding grasslands, is that most problems have generational, disciplinary, and cultural dynamics. Folks need a broadminded environment to learn and communicate across boundaries. They also need expertise to help them plan and strategize so they can get back to work. Through Red Leaf’s consulting services, I help clients accomplish their goals with renewed focus and confidence.
“Autumn has been a valued collaborator for several years, consistently demonstrating unparalleled research, knowledge, and professionalism. As an extraordinary educator and facilitator, Autumn possesses a remarkable ability to engage audiences from all backgrounds, professions, and age groups in a compelling way. Even when addressing potentially divisive topics, presentations foster respectful dialogue that honors all perspectives without alienating anyone. Workshop participants consistently praise the experience, noting the depth of learning, the thought-provoking nature of the material, and the overall enjoyment of the discussion.”
-Alicia Christensen, CIRES Center for Education, Engagement, and Evaluation