With fellow researchers in Waterton Glacier International Peace Park. Whether I am backpacking, corridor monitoring, or just wandering across the land I am continually reminded how small we are as a species and hence how our role is to be responsible members of the vast earth community.
Summer 2015
I am the 3rd one from the left in the back. This was just before Roots and Trails headed out for a mini - paddling expedition on Lake Champlain. On this trip, like so many others, I was reminded how the weather, natural world, and skills needed to find equilibrium with them are the best medium for learning and growing. |
Summer 2007
With Vermont Youth Conservation Corps crew members right before their parents arrive. When the learning environment is safe for all, it is fun to be goofy with students because while their teacher, I am also a fellow student.
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Winter 2016
Co-facilitating a teen retreat for the JCVT. This 'getting to know you' time at the beginning after co-creating group norms always helps create safe space so that when we dive into deeper, more edgy topics and experiences later, there is a safe foundation grounding us. I am always reminded when working with teens, how important it is that whatever we are doing is supportive to their self discovery process. |
Summer 2007
Doing trail work; testing a stepping stone on a muddy section. My dad's nickname for me when I was younger was 'mess' which I suppose is perfect for a naturalist, science teacher, wilderness guide, nature mentor. Though I tend to be quite tidy and organized, I do love to 'mess about' with natural phenomena (responsibly of course:) I believe that supporting others to do so as well facilitates the exploring process.
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Summer 2014
As facilitator of 'Girls from the Ground Up,' nature camp in Morrisville Vt, I am amazed every summer at what each different group of girls gets inspired about & motivated to explore. Here half of our crew decided they wanted to build their own debris shelter and sleep in it. It is satisfying to see how empowered and content the girls feel in their abode. |
Spring 2006
Measuring a recently vacated fox den in Manitoba, Alberta. Though my early adult life was focused on qualitative analysis of the natural world, this orientation shifted when I volunteered as a research assistant on the Aspen Trophic Cascade Project. Through long days of field research, I experienced the value and power in gathering quantitative data for conservation projects.
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Fall 2008
Our beloved watershed, Lake Champlain at sunset. The landscape, culture, communities, and beauty of Vermont are rare and special. After a decade of living, working, & traveling throughout the US, Canada, Israel, Spain, & Mexico, I feel incredibly grateful and content living in Vermont. |
Fall 2008
With a few Teva Girls after fall harvest of our planted garden. Youth are this planet's future. I am dedicated to working with them to the fullest of my capacity. Doing so gives me the greatest joy and satisfaction!
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Spring 2006
Moments of awe when hundreds of elk travel in herds, a snake below eats a frog, dune grass outlines a circle from wind, and an owl leaves wing prints in snow. At these times my place and role as a human in the web shrinks in size and scope to be a humble observer and conscious tender who strives to be careful with every action.
