ABF in Action: Briana Puzzo, Operations Director
ABF in Action is our monthly spotlight series highlighting the people who bring our mission to life. Each month, we introduce you to a member of our dedicated team—the people working behind the scenes (and out in the desert!) to protect the Park, inspire visitors, and connect our community to California’s largest state park.
This month, we’re featuring Briana Puzzo, operations director, whose work helps keep every part of ABF running smoothly. From technology and budgeting to human resources and organizational planning, Briana helps ensure that the people, systems, and processes behind the scenes are working together effectively in support of the Park. While much of her work happens behind the scenes, its impact can be felt across every program, project, and conservation effort ABF undertakes.
What does operations mean in the context of ABF?
Along with our major program areas like education, retail, and land conservation, operations includes technology and software, human resources, budgeting, fundraising, and more. My role helps ensure that all departments and areas of our nonprofit work together effectively.
How do your systems and processes support the mission day-to-day?
I oversee many aspects of our day-to-day work, and it’s my job to ensure we are all working efficiently and things are running smoothly. A few examples are technologies that help us efficiently manage projects and track tasks, ensuring everyone has what they need to be successful and that our team is communicating well.
What’s something behind the scenes that people might not realize impacts ABF’s success?
People may not realize how nimble ABF must be to respond to factors beyond our control: fluctuations in park visitation, shifts in park budgets, shifting trends in charitable giving driven by politics and the economy, and the list goes on. Through it all, we remain committed to consistently serving the Park and those who love it.
How do you keep the organization running smoothly during the busy season?
Strong and consistent communication is always important. We’ve also prioritized cross-training across different areas of the organization so we have a backup plan in case something unexpected happens. It’s wonderful when we have time to plan proactively for the busy times of year. Still, it helps to remain adaptable and open to change as conditions shift.
What motivates you to work in operations for conservation?
I love my team! Each one of them is doing amazing work to support the Park directly. They are amazing coworkers, and I’m honored to work with them. My position aligns with my problem-solving skills, my passion for the environment, and my love for Anza-Borrego.
How do you stay inspired when the work is mostly behind the scenes?
Are you kidding? I love working behind the scenes! Give me a vision, and I will create the executable plan to implement. Give me a goal, and I’ll develop a process to meet it. “Behind the scenes” is my happy place.
What’s your favorite season or place in Anza-Borrego?
My favorite place to hike is the Lycium Wash area, near Fish Creek. There are beautiful canyons, tenejas, interesting geology, and —my favorite part—I feel like I’m in the middle of nowhere!
Why does protecting Anza-Borrego matter to you personally?
Anza-Borrego is a place that has personally brought great joy, healing, and curiosity to my life. There are very few places as vast and remote, especially this close to three large cities (LA, San Diego, and Palm Springs). The desert, in general, is widely misunderstood, so I feel a strong calling to support ABF’s mission so the Park can be protected for my kids’ grandkids, and their grandkids… you get the idea.
Through Briana’s work, the systems, processes, and support structures that keep ABF operating effectively remain strong. While visitors may not always see the work happening behind the scenes, it plays a critical role in ensuring that education programs, conservation efforts, retail operations, and community engagement can thrive.
Support the people and programs working every day to protect Anza-Borrego Desert State Park.
Become a member today—and help ensure this extraordinary landscape continues to inspire future generations.