About my work
I recently started a position as a biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Great Lakes Coastal Program. The coastal program is partnership based, and we provide technical and financial assistance for habitat conservation in coastal watersheds. Each coastal program biologist works within one or more focus areas, which were strategically selected to have the greatest impact. I’m beginning to establish partnerships in the Straits of Mackinac focus area to generate ideas and implement projects that aim to conserve and restore coastal fish and wildlife habitats.
Beyond the coastal program, I serve as the coordinator for the Great Lakes Coastal Assembly. The assembly is a binational, voluntary group of members from more than 20 state and federal agencies, Tribes, nonprofit organizations, and universities. We work collaboratively to align actions around coastal priorities, develop goals that are guided by stakeholders, and use best available science to inform conservation strategies. Currently, our work is focused on a vision for a resilient system of coastal wetlands that support economic, social, and environmental benefits to the Great Lakes region.
Why IAGLR?
My new role with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has led me to explore ways to build my professional network and tune into large lake research. IAGLR seemed like a natural place to start. I’m excited to attend future in-person meetings to connect, learn, and exchange ideas with scientists, managers, and other stakeholders who share an interest in Great Lakes research and communication. In the meantime, I look forward to other opportunities to engage with the IAGLR community.
