Grant funded Research Assistant working on a Case Study Investigation for the Landscape Architecture Foundation

- Conducted Least Tern and Snowy Plover monitoring surveys- Assisted with the input and management of Field Data- Aided with marine mammal and avian rescues- Interacted and informed general public regarding our work- Supported avian predator tracking and management efforts

-Maintained public school gardens-Taught outdoor science lessons to elementary age students based on CA state curriculum standards

-Provided AutoCad, office, and in the field assistance for a small residential landscape design outfit. -Assisted with measurements and will also learn how to help coordinate installation.-Helped draft designs by hand, and am responsible for AutoCAD drafting when it is needed by clients.-Assisted with general office organization tasks and file management.

-Worked with and was mentored by experienced designers in various phases of active projects to prepare design diagrams, conceptual landscape presentations, and preliminary presentation graphics.-Utilized AutoCAD and the Adobe Suite to help draft designs and create preliminary graphics-Worked with our project managers to prepare design development packages, drawing and construction document packages, attend construction observation meetings.

-Collected survey and inventory data to determine species identity, population characteristics, environmental conditions, and factors affecting the vigor and extent of the species and their habitat. -Collected data for use in habitat and species condition analyses.Kept records of all data and produce maps of survey areas using GIS. -Used a botanical keys identify plants encountered in survey areas. Conducted rare plant surveys. Mapped rare plant populations using geographical devices and applications such as a trimble, Avenza, and ArcGIS. Recorded relevant ecological data, and write plant occurrence discovery records and CNDBB reports. Received introductory TESP/IS database training. Surveyed fire salvage logging projects. For each salvage project I compiled plant lists, identified rare and invasive plants, and delineated and flagged controlled areas based on established protocol. I helped organize and map our data in GIS and shared our findings with the timber sale team for use on timber sale maps. I communicated with timber onsite or through GIS to ensure that the extents and protocols for controlled areas were clear. Our survey data helped protect rare plants and minimize the spread of noxious weeds. -Conducted Burned Area Emergency Response (BAER) surveys on roads and dozerlines impacted by fire in order to assess the spread of invasive plant species and treat new infestations when possible. Utilized past data and fire maps to determine the priority of BAER surveys in different areas. -Assisted with restoration efforts, such as native seed collection and dispersal. -Carried out recurring assignments within established procedures and without specific instructions. New, difficult or unusual work assignments were given with specific instructions. -Used GPS, aerial photographs, topographic maps, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in navigation.-Performed highly physical labor and daily hiking, often to remote post-burn locations in rugged terrain.

- Communicated scientific, cultural, and historical information in an engaging and accessible way.Lead guests on hikes, whale watching tours, and on other ecotourism adventures. -Planned and maintain the organic and native plant gardens and work with kitchen staff to organize composting.-Built and maintained relationships with sustainable and eco-friendly partners such as The Dana Point Ocean Institute, Wyland Foundation, and Dana Wharf Whale Watching. -Conducted interpretive research to assist with the development of new Eco Adventure programs and augment current programs.-Provided a warm yet refined experience for guests. Collaborated with team members to create “wow” experiences for guests.

-Independently led wilderness hikes and lessons that connect students to local wildlife, history, sustainability and the environment. -Communicated biological, ecological, geological, and astronomical facts and concepts that align with California state standards for curriculum in an accessible and engaging way.-Assisted with the maintenance of the campus, trails, and native plant gardens. Managed invasive plant species that plagued campus.- Performed animal husbandry duties. Provided care for a variety of on site animals including various birds of prey, reptiles, and marine life. -Contributed to the creation of camp programs, activities, and games. Practiced teaching strategies that are culturally relevant and engage diverse groups of students in hands on learning that fosters critical thinking skills. Participated in staff equity and inclusion break out sessions. -Explored sensitive subjects with students, such as climate change and energy use, in a way that encouraged students to open themselves to new perspectives.-Provided on trail first aid when needed. -Facilitated, performed, and presented at campfire and night activities.-Collaborated with other naturalists to provide high quality lessons.

-Independently led wilderness hikes and lessons that connected students to local wildlife, history, sustainability and the environment. -Gained experience in teaching students about sensitive subjects, such as commercial logging, in a neutral way that encouraged students to open themselves to new perspectives.-Communicated biological, ecological, and geological facts and concepts in an accessible and engaging way. Our lessons primarily focused on the ecology of the CA redwood forests and the northern CA coast. -Assisted in facilitating camp programs, activities, and games. Led students through team building and problem solving exercises and obstacle courses. -Provided on trail first aid when needed. -Worked with fellow naturalists to enhance lessons, share teaching strategies, and provide a welcoming and cohesive camp experience.

I assisted with various undergraduate and graduate geobotany research under professor Nishanta Rajakaruna. I also created and pursued my own research projects. For example, I ran a study on the impacts of multiple nutrient element enrichment on native and alien plant species on California’s serpentine grasslands, and surveyed populations of a rare plant for the USFS.

Developed and facilitated educational programs about Oceano Dunes State Park and the natural world for park visitors. Collaborated and organized with other interpretive specialists and volunteers to help run the visitor center and put on educational activities. Shared knowledge about Oceano Dunes State Park and provided environmental education through park campfire presentations, junior ranger activities, and roving duties. Interacted with park visitors and addressed questions and concerns.

Learned the fundamentals of dendrochronology while studying abroad in Viterbo, Italy. Collaborated with 2 other interns in a laboratory setting compiling data, working with a dendrograph, and using cross-dating techniques to construct the climate histories of various stands of trees. Communicated findings in a written research paper, and as an oral presentation for students and faculty.