Can you describe what a "typical" day looks like in your current role?
Supporting a fish reclamation project as large as the PHP requires me to assume a wide range of responsibilities that vary from day to day and across seasons. In preparation for rotenone treatment this past summer, I conducted fish surveys, disease sampling, streamflow measurements, and other stream assessments. Beyond fieldwork, I participated in leadership meetings, coordinated event logistics, and supported additional efforts necessary to successfully carry out a reclamation involving over 80 participants. Following completion of the first year of the reclamation, I coordinated after-action reviews, assisted with macroinvertebrate collection and identification, and am helping plan for the second year of the project.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The most rewarding part of working with PHP is the ability to directly help with recovery efforts for a threatened, native species, with hopes that we will see its success in the future. I'm also lucky to get to work in wilderness areas of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Never Summer Wilderness - the wildflowers and wildlife are incredible!
How did your time in FWCB prepare you for your career?
My masters research gave me abundant hands-on experience with fish and macroinvertebrates, knowledge of which are essential to my career now. Working with federal and local partners and developing a research project alongside them not only helped me prepare for future work, but build connections that I will carry into my career.
What advice would you give to current or future FWCB students who want to pursue a career similar to yours?
I was fortunate to work on a project I am passionate about, and recommend anyone who is interested in fish or stream ecology to find a niche they are passionate about as well. Meet as many people as you can, because you never know when you will work with them again!
Is there anything else you would like to share?
The FWCB community is a special place am I'm proud to be a part of it!