 My research focuses on quantifying the plant species diversity and composition of created and natural vernal pools on the southern tier of New York, investigating the abiotic and biotic factors influencing vernal pool plant assemblages, and ultimately using these data to make recommendations concerning the construction of vernal pools. This work is done in collaboration with the Upper Susquehanna Coalition, and is funded in part by the Edna Bailey Sussman Foundation and the Wetland Foundation. In addition to my thesis-related research pursuits, I am also interested in environmental justice, the intersection of conservation and community development, environmental education, and outreach efforts that connect various audiences to the natural world. In keeping with these interests, I worked with the SUNY-ESF Outreach Office to develop and implement various credit, non-credit, and professional programs, such as a green infrastructure workforce development program tailored for English Language Learners with traditional barriers to employment. This training program was a collaborative effort of SUNY ESF Outreach, the Northside Urban Partnership, and the Centerstate Corporation for Economic Opportunity.   |