Lisa Mary Pohlmann

Lisa M. Pohlmann, 70, a dedicated environmental advocate and lifelong lover of Maine's outdoors, passed away on March 22, 2026, in Augusta after a long illness. Born and raised in Davenport, Iowa, she settled in Maine in the 1970s and made it her home.
Lisa devoted her life to protecting the environment, culminating in her tenure as CEO of the Natural Resources Council of Maine from 2011 to 2022. Her involvement with the organization spanned many years, including service on its board of directors and as deputy director before she was chosen as CEO following a national search.
In addition to her work with NRCM, Lisa held leadership roles with New Hope for Women and the Maine Center for Economic Policy. She earned a doctorate from the Muskie School of Public Service and, in 2015, received the inaugural Women in Conservation Award from the National Wildlife Federation.
She is survived by her wife, Kathy Sparrow; her daughters, Erica Haynes (Glen) and Nicole Pickering; her grandchildren, Damien, Aaron, Bethany, Dawn, Parker, and Ella; her brother, Mark Pohlmann (Barb), and many dear friends who will miss her greatly.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, May 14, 2026, 4:30-6 pm at Viles Arboretum in Augusta. Arrangements are under the care of Funeral Alternatives of Augusta. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to NRCM or planting a native tree in Lisa's honor.