Mica Raas

Geospatial Data Scientist and Field Operations Leader with an M.S. in Geographic Information Science and Remote Sensing and over a decade of land stewardship experience. Expert in independently executing field-based project coordination, managing contractor oversight in active operational settings, and navigating rugged terrain to ensure successful project implementation. Proven track record optimizing spatial data pipelines (Python, ArcGIS) and authoring technical RFPs, contracts, and administrative documentation to bridge the gap between rigorous field-level delivery and multi-agency (USFS/state/local) compliance.

Director at Mother Lode Trail Stewardship (2025-01 – Present)

• Lead regional forest health, trail planning, and ecological restoration initiatives across the Western Slope of El Dorado County, ensuring alignment with public land management goals.
• Spearheaded the development of a comprehensive, post-Caldor Fire recreation and trail development plan, mapping and proposing 201.6 miles of fire-hardened, multi-use trails to stimulate economic recovery and community resilience.
• Collaborate extensively with federal agencies (USFS), state entities, and local governments to navigate complex environmental compliance, land-use zoning, and right-of-way challenges.
• Direct field operations, manage program budgets, and secure grant funding to support sustainable land stewardship and non-motorized infrastructure development.

Principal Consultant at Raas Consulting (2015-01 – Present)

• Provide advanced spatial data science, asset valuation, and environmental property assessments for private clients, conservation groups, and agricultural enterprises.
• Develop customized Python scripts using geopandas, rasterio, and pandas to automate viewshed analysis, habitat suitability modeling, and terrain classification from LiDAR-derived DEMs.
• Conduct rigorous spatial analyses of local infrastructure data, including a high-density traffic accident frequency study using geocoded police reports to identify safety corridors for local planning.
• Advise landowners and conservation partners on sustainable land management practices, soil conservation, and terroir-driven land use.

Vice President of Production & Operations at Goldline Brands (2016-01 – Present)

• Oversaw large-scale production, logistics, and agricultural asset management, integrating complex spatial, parcel, and environmental data to optimize regional operations.
• Managed multi-million dollar operational budgets, capital improvement projects, and regulatory compliance frameworks across multiple regional facilities.
• Cultivated high-performing, cross-functional teams and established rigorous quality control systems to scale production efficiently and sustainably.

Founder & CEO at Myka Cellars Inc. (2009-01 – 2015-12)

• Built and managed a successful wine production enterprise, utilizing geographic and environmental analysis to identify optimal vineyard sites and navigate regional agricultural regulations.

M.S. in Geographic Information Science & Remote Sensing – Northern Arizona University

B.S. in Geology – Sonoma State University

B.A. in Environmental Studies – Sonoma State University

B.S. in Wine Business – Sonoma State University

Professional Certificates in Agricultural & Production Sciences – UC Davis / Santa Rosa Junior College