How did you come to work at Grouse Mountain?
I happened to see a job posting for a seasonal biologist at Grouse Mountain when I was finishing up my Master’s degree in British Columbia and had previously worked in Wyoming. It had potential to turn into a long-term position and they responded really quickly to my job application.
What do you do at Grouse Mountain?
I am a wildlife biologist, managing the wildlife side of projects for clients. I help ensure that wildlife surveys are completed as necessary and help clients navigate regulations and timing stipulations surrounding species of concern under federal, state, and local regulations. I try to balance office work and fieldwork, working on both oil & gas and renewable energy projects. Additionally, I help with wetland delineations and surveys for jurisdictional waters.
What made you want to choose this career path?
My previous professional experience had focused on wildlife research and environmental consulting allowed for some diversity in work experience and a chance to dig more into the regulatory aspects of wildlife management.
What’s your favorite part about working at Grouse Mountain?
We survey for a variety of species and habitats and Grouse Mountain has allowed me to expand my experience and knowledge working with a wide range of wildlife survey protocols across multiple western states. I have worked on projects in Wyoming, Montana, Colorado, Utah, and North Dakota.
What’s an experience that stands out to you from working at Grouse Mountain?
Getting to work on the variety of projects mentioned above. I love variety and came from the research path where most work was species-specific.
What do you love about Wyoming?
Wyoming is home to a large number of wildlife species. There is more wildlife out in the sagebrush steppe than most people realize. And the sagebrush steppe is just one of many habitat types found in the state.
What are some of your hobbies?
I volunteer with CHAPS, a therapeutic riding program in Sheridan, on most Saturdays where I help with the horses during lessons, workshops, and fundraising events. Also, I enjoy hiking and reading.
Tell us a few fun facts about you!
I went to grad school in British Columbia. Also, my first wildlife work experience outside of school was volunteering with the California Condor Recovery Program.
What differentiates Grouse Mountain from its competitors?
Grouse Mountain has a small company feel and the people you work with makes a big difference. Our wildlife team works well together and are able to support each other on all projects.
Final thoughts?
Grouse Mountain does more than just grouse surveys. With a background in grouse research, most of my family and friends hear that I work for Grouse Mountain and think I’m still working primarily with grouse.
