Pattern Synthesis

Integrating rigorous science with organizational effectiveness to solve complex conservation challenges

Environmental and conservation organizations face two interconnected problems: complex environmental challenges that require sophisticated analysis AND organizational capacity gaps that limit their ability to implement solutions.

Most consultants offer one or the other – technical expertise OR organizational development – but effective conservation requires both.

Strategic Thought Partnership for Organizational Growth

I work with environmental organizations at the intersection of science and capacity:

Environmental Problem-Solving

Systems analysis of complex environmental challenges using data mining, modeling, and integration of ecological science with social, political, and economic contexts. I help you understand the full system you’re working in and design solutions more likely to succeed because they account for real-world complexity.

Organizational Capacity Building

Strategic planning, staff development, and monitoring and evaluation systems that strengthen your organization’s ability to deliver on mission. Working alongside you through organizational growth, I help build infrastructure that scales without losing what makes your work effective.

Professional Mentoring

Supporting emerging conservation leaders as they develop both technical expertise and professional judgment. I provide guidance on career development, technical skills, and navigating the complex landscape of environmental work.

Science Translation & Communication

Making complex environmental science accessible and actionable for diverse audiences—from policymakers to community members to funders. I help you communicate your work’s value and build the understanding needed for support.

Who I Work With

I partner with conservation organizations, environmental NGOs, and initiatives working on forestry, land management, climate adaptation, and ecosystem restoration.

I work best with organizations where I feel aligned and in right relationship—where mutual respect, shared values, and genuine partnership make the work meaningful for all of us.

I begin by understanding your actual situation—the environmental challenges you’re tackling, the organizational dynamics at play, the constraints you’re working within, and what you’re trying to accomplish. This might mean analyzing complex ecological data, reviewing your organizational structure, or both.

From there, we design approaches tailored to your needs: systems analysis of environmental problems, strategic planning, capacity building for staff, monitoring and evaluation frameworks, technical mentoring, or science communication strategies. Often it’s a combination—because effective conservation requires both sound science and organizational capacity to implement it.

Most importantly, I don’t just deliver reports or plans. I work alongside you as a thought partner and coach—whether that’s helping you interpret data and design solutions, building your team’s capabilities, or adapting strategies as we learn what works in your unique context. The relationship evolves based on what you need.

About Dr. Wendy Peterman

I bring over 20 years of experience in forest science and federal land management, including roles as Deputy District Ranger and Forest Soil Program Manager with the USDA Forest Service, where I managed conservation work across 1.7+ million acres.

My expertise spans forest ecology, soil science, climate adaptation, stakeholder engagement, grant writing, and translating complex science into policy and practice. I’ve led post-fire restoration projects, facilitated contentious public processes, built partnerships with tribal communities, and secured significant funding for conservation initiatives.

Ph.D. in Forest Engineering, Oregon State University
Former Deputy District Ranger, Coconino National Forest
Former Forest Soil Program Manager, USDA Forest Service
Author and science communicator

I started Pattern Synthesis to apply ecological principles to organizational challenges and to use innovative approaches—including AI for data mining and systems modeling—to tackle environmental problems that require integrating multiple dimensions of complexity.

Beyond technical expertise, I’m a former dancer who brings creativity and systems thinking to everything I do. I’m passionate about elevating women in conservation, mentoring emerging leaders, and finding solutions that work for both ecosystems and communities.

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