Legal Fellow
Sam Montagno (she/her) serves as a Legal Fellow for the Clean Up Hanford program and the Salmon Recovery program. Sam graduated from Lewis & Clark Law School in May 2026 with a Certificate in Environmental and Natural Resources Law. During law school, Sam interned for Columbia Riverkeeper, volunteered for 350PDX and Divest Oregon, and participated in the National Crime Victims Litigation clinic and the Transformative Immigration Law clinic.
What inspires you to do this work?
Growing up in New Hampshire, I developed a strong love and appreciation for the natural world while also understanding that not all communities have equal access to a clean and healthy environment. I am inspired and honored to have the opportunity to help address these inequities across the Pacific Northwest through the work I am able to do with Columbia Riverkeeper.
Meet the Team
Riverkeeper’s team includes scientists, environmental lawyers, and community organizers. We work to organize and empower local communities, enforce environmental laws, and build strategic coalitions. Our mission is to protect and restore the Columbia River and all life connected to it.