Photo of Belle, Ashley

Ashley Belle

Environmental Quality Specialist

University of Illinois Extension

Contact

Office Phone:
217-300-686

About

Dr. Ashley J. Belle brings more than 14 years of experience within land-grant university Extension systems, where she has successfully designed, implemented, and evaluated high-impact, research-based environmental education programs that address the needs of diverse communities. She holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science and Technology from the University of Maryland, a Master of Science in Environmental Sciences from Louisiana State University, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Dillard University. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to advancing environmental stewardship, sustainability, and public education.

As the Environmental Quality Specialist with University of Illinois Extension, Dr. Belle addresses statewide environmental issues related to waste management, land contamination, and air quality. In this role, she leads stakeholder engagement efforts and develops educational outreach supporting the Biomethane Emissions Reduction, Capture, and Utilization Program. She is passionate about educating others on generating renewable energy from waste materials through anaerobic digestion. She advocates for conservation education, encouraging individuals to utilize natural resources wisely, and adopt environmentally sustainable practices in their daily lives.

Dr. Belle has published research and outreach in peer-reviewed journals, including The Journal of Extension, Bioresource Technology, and Biomass & Bioenergy. Her professional affiliations include Sigma Xi, the Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP), and the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE).