Brighton Heard is the General Manager of the Captiva Erosion Prevention District, where he oversees all aspects of district operations, finance, and strategic planning. With nearly two decades of experience in ecological restoration, mitigation banking, and coastal resilience, Brighton brings a depth of technical expertise and leadership to CEPD's mission of preserving Captiva Island's shoreline.

A certified Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS), Certified Forester (CF), and Certified Ecological Restoration Practitioner (CERP), Brighton has led large-scale restoration and conservation initiatives across the southeastern U.S. and California. Prior to joining CEPD, he served senior roles at Westervelt Ecological Services and Resource Environmental Solutions (RES), managing complex projects that required coordination with state and federal agencies, including the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

Brighton holds a Bachelor of Science in Natural Resource Ecology and Management from Louisiana State University, with a concentration in Wetland Science. He is a licensed FAA drone pilot and active member of several professional organizations, including the Society of Wetland Scientists, the Florida Association of Special Districts, the Coastal Conservation Association of Florida, and the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association.  

A lifelong passion for the outdoors naturally evolved into a career in conservation. Outside of work Brighton lives a very active lifestyle and is an avid outdoorsman who spends time during the warmer months fishing, diving, and boating, and the winter season hunting and snowboarding. He finds balance to his professional commitments through time on the water, quiet walks along the beach with his black lab, and taking time to appreciate the beauty in nature.