Chris Santana
Facilities Manager
Chris was raised in the Santa Cruz Mountains, this rural upbringing fostered a love of nature and of stewarding the land, and a fondness for working with his hands to build and fix things. After some time wandering through the mountains as a Wilderness Ranger for the Forest Service, Chris found his way to OAEC for the Permaculture Design Course before joining the staff collective as part of the Facilities Department. Chris formerly managed the Occidental Farmers Market, which combined his passions of agriculture, sustainability and building community. A proud steward of his own goats, Chris also helps tend to a herd of 200 sheep at a nearby ranch/intentional community called Bodega Pastures.
On Staff Since: 2019 Email > Phone: x125
In Their Own Words
My Work at OAEC
I help manage the general upkeep and maintenance of the land, buildings and other infrastructure. With 80 acres and many structures, there is always lots to do!
My Background
I was raised in rural Santa Cruz County and I’ve always enjoyed building and fixing things, tending to the land, and in general anything that gets my hands dirty. Prior to my work here at OAEC, I worked for the US Forest Service tending to camping, hiking, and other facilities in Colorado, and then as a Wilderness Ranger in the eastern Sierra Nevada.
My Passions
Nature, science, friends and community, mountains, goats, surf, food, music, fun!
My Dream Project
Rebuilding our barn. The old barn burned down in April 2020. While tragic to have the historic structure burn, the opportunity to help rebuild was truly an amazing experience and I learned a lot!
How I Regenerate
Water. Being in, on, and around water always helps me mend. I also have the honor and the privilege to tend to the healing waters of our wonderful hot tub as the OAEC Hot Tub Director.
Why My Work Matters:
As a land-based organization with a focus on creating a sense of place and of connection between ourselves and the natural world, I take great satisfaction in tending to the land and tending to the place to help foster this connection for others. So much happens behind the scenes here at OAEC to help facilitate the community, guests, and other staff in doing all the important work they are doing in the world. I find it extremely rewarding to be able to contribute and support in my own way.
My Favorite Resiliency Resource
Exercise in nature. Hiking, running, swimming, surfing, paddling, etc. bring me great joy and recharge the mental/emotional batteries.
What Gives Me Hope
Friends and the power of community.
