Madeline - Lakes Region Conservation Trust

Hi! My name is Madeline Linhart. I am from Texas but attended college at the University of New Hampshire. My major was Environmental Conservation and Sustainability. When I was younger, my family lived in Idaho where my love for the environment grew. I loved camping, hiking, swimming, exploring, and roasting marshmallows around the campfire. During my time at college, I had the opportunity to study abroad for a semester in New Zealand with the EcoQuest program. It was here that I learned about various ecosystems, environmental conservation, and the importance of protecting biodiversity. My favorite hobbies include writing, reading, crafting, and spending time outside. As a recent graduate, I look forward to working outside with a dedicated environmental team.

Michaela - Squam Lakes Conservation Society

My name is Michaela Duda and I'm from Avondale, Pennsylvania. I just recently graduated from James Madison University in Virginia with a Bachelor's degree in Public Policy and a minor in Environmental Studies. I love spending my free time outside and enjoy many outdoor activities including hiking, backpacking, biking, and running. I spent this past summer after my graduation completing my first thru hike of the Appalachian Trail and am very excited to get to explore more of New Hampshire!

Mimi - Newfound Lake Region Association

Hey, friends! I'm Mimi, a woodland wanderer from Maine and New Hampshire. My nomadic spirit growing up and as an adult has taken me far and wide through many different experiences, but wherever I roam, the forest remains my classroom and anchor, a constant source of comfort and connection. The woods are still my playground, where you'll likely find me doing the silly things that humans do like; climbing on rocks, sleeping in a tent, cooking over a fire (it just hits different), reading in a hammock, walking on trails, or sliding down snowy mountains. After earning my Associates in Liberal Arts from Manchester Community College in 2021, I set off on a soul-searching road trip that led me to the majestic Rockies of Montana. There, I immersed myself in the vibrant community of a family-run ski area, lending a hand in just about every department. I continued in the ski industry here in New England, and despite my love for ski-culture, I’ve always known that there was more to my passion for the outdoors than just selling an experience. That's why I'm thrilled to be transitioning to conservation work with the NLRA as a Watershed Steward! Through my journey, I've come to realize that my deepest fulfillment comes from nurturing connections with people and nature, and doing my part to preserve the intricate beauty of nature for generations to come. I can't wait to dive into this meaningful work through the NLRA as a Watershed Steward and make a difference in protecting a place as beautiful as Newfound Lake. Yee haw!

Sarah - Squam Lakes Conservation Society

Hi everyone! My name is Sarah Burtnick and I grew up in Pennsylvania, 30 minutes outside of Philadelphia. I just graduated from the George Washington University, in Washington, DC, where I got a Bachelors of Arts in Environmental Studies and minors in GIS and Geography. My entire life, I have always been drawn towards learning about the environment and environmental protection, leading to my desire to get a degree in environmental studies. Through my education, I have developed a strong passion for ecological conservation and GIS work. My goal is to find a career where I can use GIS to communication data collection and conservation work that I have conducted. I'm really excited to serve as an AmeriCorps member at the Squam Lakes Conservation Society and further develop my passion in the environment and guide my career forward.

Shannon - Newfound Lake Region Association

Hello! My name is Shannon and I’m from Granby, CT. I just graduated from Vassar College with a biology degree focusing on ecology. I also minored in anthropology and was very involved in the music department. I’ve been playing piano since I was nine and developed a passion for singing after spending the last few years in the college choir. Traveling and exploring the world is also very important to me. Last spring, I went on a two-week-long solo trip to New Zealand after I studied abroad in Australia. I love spending time in nature and grew up hiking, camping, skiing, kayaking, etc. I’m also obsessed with creative writing and have been working furiously on a story for the past few months. I’m so excited to launch my conservation career with the Newfound Lake Region Association!

Shea - Camp Hale

Hi everyone! My name is Shea Kelley. I am a Junior at the University of Connecticut, studying Environmental Studies with a minor in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology. I am from the State College area in central Pennsylvania, but I have loved spending my past summers in New Hampshire. I am excited to be back in the Lakes Region with the Conservation Corps this summer! I have spent this Spring semester in Granada, Spain studying Spanish language and culture. In my free time I enjoy traveling, hiking, skiing, reading, as well as drawing and painting.

Taylor - Lakes Region Conservation Trust

Greetings y'all! My name is Taylor Lovely, a born and bred resident of the Lakes Region in New Hampshire. These lakes, mountains, rivers, ponds, and forests have been my playground, community, and source of love and support since day one. Before attending college, I spent a gap semester working with conservation organizations in Australia and New Zealand which solidified my field of study for the coming years. I attended Middlebury college and graduated with a joint major in Environmental studies and Anthropology with a minor in Philosophy. While attending college, I joined the Middlebury Student Quakers and dabbled in the intersectional studies of the environment and theology, which opened my eyes and heart to the wisdom from our silent, more-than-human community. I spend most of my time hiking, reading, foraging plants and fungi, birding, crafting, and meditating. I am deeply excited to conserve the Lakes Region and attempt to 'speak for the trees' through this work!

Tessa - Camp Hale

Hello! I grew up in the Poconos of Pennsylvania. My family literally raised me in the woods, hiking and camping. I went to Delaware Valley University for two years then transferred to Unity College (Distance Location, Online). The first year at Del Val, I majored in Large Animal Pre Vet and soon after volunteering at a local wildlife rehabilitation center, I switched my major to Wildlife Conservation and Management. I love volunteering, I have done it my whole life through girl scouts and my brothers boy scouts. Fun fact, my parents met at the Philadelphia Folk Fest and ever since, my family has gone every year! I play the piano and mandolin. I do have a cat that I raised in the college dorms and registered as my ESA. I will be leaving her home this summer because I don’t want to stress her out. I'm excited to get to know everyone and have a great summer!!

Zoe - The Nature Conservancy

Zoe Pavlik is from Durham, New Hampshire. She just finished up her undergraduate degree from the University of Maine, double majoring in Ecology and Environmental Sciences and Wildlife Ecology. She has been passionate about environmental conservation from a young age and is excited to help preserve our state's beautiful natural environment for future generations. In her free time, her interests include running, music, and board games. She loved participating in marching band and orchestra throughout college and hopes to continue playing music throughout her life. She also enjoys being outside and spending time with family and friends.

2024 Full-Year Lakes Region Conservation Corps

Emily - Squam Lakes Association

My name is Emily Fredricks and I'm very excited to be working with the Lakes Region Conservation Corps. I am originally from the west coast of Michigan and went to university at Grand Valley State University. When at GVSU, I studied environmental and sustainability studies along with hospitality and tourism management where I also competed in a collegiate rowing team! I'm a huge day hiker, bird watcher, bee keeper, and reader.

Grace - Green Mountain Conservation Group

Grace is a young ecologist that has lived and worked in New England her whole life. With a B.S. in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Northeastern University, Grace has a passion for understanding the complex relationships within environments. She has a keen interest in aquatic ecosystems, and how people think about them. Grace has worked in multiple aquariums as both an Educator and Aquarist, as well as within the National Park Service through Americorps. This professional experience has only cemented her path as an ecologist. Originally from Milford, Connecticut, she loves to explore the outdoors through tidepooling and international travel. She also enjoys baking for friends and family.

Hali - Green Mountain Conservation Group

Hey everyone! My name is Hali Bedenharn and I grew up exploring creeks, trails, and nature centers in and around my hometown of Oneonta, New York. I have earned a BS in Environmental Sustainability and Geography and have always had an interest in conservation work. Most recently I was a naturalist for the Sawtooth Interpretive and Historical Association (SIHA), an environmental education nonprofit in the mountains of Idaho. Working with SIHA has fueled my love for outdoor education and instilled how important nonprofits are for environmental conservation efforts. In my spare time you can find me outdoors, whether hiking, learning about local flora and fauna, or birdwatching. I am thrilled to explore New Hampshire and continue working with the public as Team Green’s Education and Outreach Assistant this year!

Kat - Squam Lakes Association

My name is Kat and I am from Hingham, Massachusetts. I am a recent college graduate from Colby-Sawyer College and have a bachelor's degree in environmental science with a double minor in biology and sustainability. I enjoy spending time outdoors and have a passion for helping the environment. I love to hike, kayak, and ski during my free time. My most recent travel destinations include Alaska, Iceland, and the Southwestern United States.

Maria - Squam Lakes Association

I grew up in Alexandria, VA, but have spent a good chunk of time living in New England, including a brief stint in the Lakes Region with the Winnipesaukee Playhouse. I received my BA from Vassar College, where I studied Drama and International Studies in a multidisciplinary program that included geography, sociology, Africana studies...and Bertolt Brecht. I'm now transitioning into conservation after working in technical theater for the last several years; I'm particularly interested in the connections between sustainability, outdoor recreation, and tourism, and in conversations about accessibility and equity in the outdoors. I am an enthusiastic public library patron and Boston Area Gleaners volunteer, and I enjoy reading about food, language, the economy.

Megan - Squam Lakes Association

Hello everyone!! My name is Megan Jacobs (she/her) I was born and raised in Salisbury Massachusetts. I got my Bachelors degree at the University of New Hampshire in Wildlife Conservation and Biology. I have always enjoyed hiking and being outside surrounded by nature. I love learning and seeing new things. I also enjoy arts and crafts and look for inspiration everywhere I go.

Peter - Squam Lakes Association

Peter is from the fair city of Cambridge, Mass. He recently graduated from Harvard University, where he studied Integrative Biology and Folklore, and spent a lot of time extolling the virtues of both to anyone who would listen. Peter has been a longtime camp counselor in the Lakes Region, and will also happily educate you on the merits of that profession. He enjoys looking outside for wildlife (which he feels should include plants and fungi) and solving and constructing puzzles.

Tara - Squam Lakes Association

My name is Tara Wu, and I am excited to serve as a Watershed Resource Assistant with the Squam Lakes Association. I recently graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in environmental science and journalism, writing my senior thesis on the senescence of deciduous trees in the northeastern U.S. Prior to joining the Lakes Region Conservation Corps, I taught English in urban and rural Taiwan for two years through the Fulbright program, which is also where I fell in love with cycling. I enjoy reading (from memoirs to classics and everything in between), hiking, and listening to podcasts (Hidden Brain is probably my favorite). I am from the Lehigh Valley area of Pennsylvania.

2023 Half-Year Lakes Region Conservation Corps

Allison - Lakes Region Conservation Trust

Hello everybody! My name is Allison, and I grew up in Fredericksburg Virginia where my life has always revolved around nature. I am an avid hiker, backpacker, hammocker, runner, and lover of all things in the great outdoors! I went to Virginia Tech where I got my degree in National Security and Foreign Affairs with a majority of my credits surrounding environmental security and green engineering and am actively pursuing a career in GIS and natural resource management. I spent my last semester in Utah conducting trail maintenance and habitat restoration, where it has since grown my passion in conservation and community, as I continued, became a part of my local Parks and Rec Department, and then an environmental educator at a camp in South Carolina. When I'm not working, I enjoy going on spontaneous adventures, hiking, running, disc golf, playing Tetris (not to brag but I'm number 8 in my local area), drawing, and meeting new people! I am excited to use my past skills and experiences to help conserve and preserve the great land of New Hampshire with the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, and contribute to something greater for the better future!

Antoni - Newfound Lake Region Association

I am a Freshwater Sciences student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee where I also am on the swim team. I am origninally from Minnesota and grew up spending as much time outside and in the water as I could, fishing, swimming, waterskiing, I even spent two summers as a lifeguard at a local beach.

Christina - Squam Lakes Association

Hello! My name is Christina Norman, and I grew up on a small farm in Wauseon, Ohio. I've always been in love with nature, most likely due to watching animal documentaries throughout my childhood. In 2022, I graduated from Bowling Green State University with my BS in Biology with specializations in Marine & Aquatic Biology and Ecology & Conservation Biology. I've worked as a wetlands plant research assistant and an aquarium intern. I'm interested in a wide range of things, from lake algae to horseshoe crabs, and I'm always eager to learn more about the natural world, so I'm very excited to be part of the LRCC team! When I'm not working, you can find me anywhere near the water, reading a book, or enjoying walks through the trees.

Emily - Mount Washington Observatory

Emily is thrilled to be joining the LRCC and Mount Washington Observatory as a School Programs Educator. While hailing from California’s San Francisco Bay Area, Emily moved to New Hampshire over a year ago and has found her home in the White Mountains. Her passion for the environment and education grew during her time as an Interpretive Ranger at Franconia Notch State Park. While she enjoys interacting with visitors of all ages, Emily especially loves the part of her job where she can help children form a connection with nature and the environment. In her free time, Emily enjoys hiking, backpacking, and listening to music. Emily is ecstatic to further her interest in environmental education through the LRCC and MWOBS in the position as School Programs Educator this season.

Erika - Squam Lakes Conservation Society

Hi! My name is Erika Looman, and I’m from Shelburne Massachusetts. I currently attend St. Lawrence University where I am studying Geology. Prior to SLU, I studied Environmental Conservation at Greenfield Community College which helped me make connections between the outdoors as a natural classroom and my favorite activities which include Nordic and alpine skiing, riding bikes, and hiking. I am excited to spend the summer with the Squam Lakes Conservation Society and surround myself with likeminded people who are passionate about conserving the abundant natural resources that the lakes region offers while beginning my career in conservation.

Ian - Camp Hale

My name is Ian Murray- I have recently graduated from Earlham College with a biology degree, and finished a 6 month term as a conservation service worker with AmeriCorps in Asheville, NC. I am passionate about conservation and science education- in my free time I enjoy writing, hiking and birdwatching

Isabella - Newfound Lake Region Association

Hi everyone! My name is Isabella and I'm from Derry, NH. I'm currently working towards a degree in Environmental Science with a minor in Philosophy from Wheaton College MA. My degree concentrates on biology, and I'm most passionate about my studies in conservation science. I've spent the past few summers working at a state park in New Hampshire, which led me to pursue further conservation work with the NLRA. When I'm not in class, you can find me out in the sun or exploring the woods. During the winter, I snowboard and ski. During the warmer months, I love just about any outdoor activity. Some of my favorites include playing tennis, skateboarding, surfing, and kayaking. I also love to paint and cook in my free time. As a lifelong New Hampshire resident, I'm excited to be joining the Newfound Lake Region Association to help protect such a beautiful part of our state!

Jasper - Squam Lakes Association

Hi, my name is Jasper. I am a Marine Biology student at New College of Florida. I grew up in New London, NH. For as long as I can remember, fish have been my favorite creatures. I want to help leave our natural environments better than I found them. In my free time you can always find me fishing in my kayak, or not in my kayak, but still fishing.

Jenna - Squam Lakes Association

Hi I'm Jenna! I love to play outside and I love New Hampshire! I've studied Agriculture and Forestry at Clemson University in South Carolina and here at UNH. I grew up in Maryland and moved here to be a ski patroller a few years ago. I like snowboarding, farming, cooking, and reading (Coelho and Alcott!!).

Logan - Squam Lakes Association

Hi, my name is Logan. If I can't be found in a hole or looking for one of my shoes, then I'm out for a ride or in for the night. My hometown is Omaha, Nebraska where the buffalo no longer roam. I've been in Colorado, Utah, Nebraska, and California the past few years working in conservation and outdoor recreation. If I could paint or draw or sing or dance, I'd be doing that instead. I am the unofficial plant-based hot dog eating champion in the state of Nebraska. My favorite cloud is Stratocumulus.

Masen - The Nature Conservancy

Masen is originally from upstate New York but currently lives in Virginia Beach, spending most of his time in the outdoors. His love for the outdoors led him to study Environmental and Natural Resource Conservation at SUNY E.S.F Ranger School in the Adirondack mountains of NY. As a student at the Ranger School, he completed intensive hours of technical field work and data collection in fields such as conservation, forestry, and some land surveying. Throughout his time at the Ranger School, he realized how important pursuing a career in conservation was to him. He has been working in conservation work over the past 2 years from researching turkeys to surveying aquatic plants. Outside of work, Masen can be found doing the activities he loves such as hunting, fishing, or just casually birding.

Noah - Squam Lakes Association

Hi all! My name is Noah, and I come from a small town called Hardwick in northern Vermont. I recently graduated from Boston College with a BS in Biology and a minor in Environmental Studies, where I have worked on a long-term study of the effects of climate change on the phenology of the trees on campus. I love being outdoors and appreciating the natural world, so I'm very excited to spend this summer with SLA! Aside from outdoor recreation, I'm a fan of music and I played trumpet for a number of ensembles over the past decade or so. I'm really looking forward to working outdoors close to home in New Hampshire this summer!

Peyton - Lakes Region Conservation Trust

Hi! My name is Peyton Brown and I am from Scituate, Massachusetts. I am thrilled to be a part of the Lakes Region Conservation Corps this season! I am very excited to be conducting conservation work in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire.

In my spare time I like to get outdoors, go on bicycle rides, paddle-board, and go hiking. I love trying new foods and enjoy cooking with friends. In May of 2022, I graduated from Boston College with a bachelors in Environmental Studies.

Rebekah - Lakes Region Conservation Trust

Hi everyone! My name is Rebekah, and I grew up in Chester, New Hampshire. I am currently pursuing my bachelor’s degree in environmental science with a focus on natural resources and conservation from Southern New Hampshire University. I am an Air Force Veteran and am very happy to be back in my home state.

I found a passion for the environment through my upbringing in the Granite State and my travels to 37 countries with the military. I’ve seen the Sahara Desert, Mount Fuji, the White Cliffs of Dover, Mount Vesuvius, along with some of the most remote parts of the planet and so much more. These experiences have driven me to enter the conservation field and to promote responsible recreational use of our natural spaces. When I was younger, I loved being outside fishing, hiking, camping, and searching for frogs, toads, and newts. Today, not much has changed! I am so excited to be a part of this team and to work with the Lakes Region Conservation Trust this season.

Sam - Squam Lakes Association

Throughout my life, I've had a fascination with the outdoors, thanks to the efforts of my father, who introduced me to the wonderful potential it held. The wilderness also helped me out of a very dark time in my life, and it is where I found myself once again and learned to appreciate the world around me once more. I look forward to serving my time in a place from my childhood which I've come to cherish.

Sawyer - Newfound Lake Region Association

Hello there, my name is Sawyer Zaluki. I grew up my whole life in Cheshire County, more specifically Marlborough New Hampshire. Growing up in this area I gained a passion for the outdoors, whether fishing, hunting, or hiking, I enjoy it. This passion has led me to gain a degree in Wildlife Science last year at SUNY ESF. In my free time l love going on hikes or walks in an outdoors setting, taking in the beauty and the fresh air. Depending on the time of the year you can also find my fishing or hunting. Recently I have started to develop a love for birding, however I am still a little bit inexperienced at identify them. I love also spend time with my family, or more specifically my dog.

Shaun - Green Mountain Conservation Group

Hey guys! My name is Shaun Baughman and I’m from Garden City, Kansas. I’m currently finishing up my last semester at Kansas State University and will soon have my B.S. in Biology this May 2023. During my time in college, I’ve worked as a freshwater ecology lab technician and completed research projects on the nitrogen cycle of Acropora spp. coral and investigating marine debris and its effects on a small coastal village in Hopkins, Belize.

I’ve developed a love for aquatic ecology and I hope to develop this passion even further as a member of the LRCC AmeriCorps program while working with the Green Mountain Conservation Group. I look forward to learning more about the effects of microplastics, water quality, and promoting water and resource conservation programs! In my free time I enjoy hiking, running, reading, painting, being out on the water, and caring for my plants and pet snail, Snorlock.

Shea - Squam Lakes Association

Hello! My name is Shea. I am originally from Derry, NH, but have been living in and around Boston for the last 11 years. I graduated from UMass Boston in 2018 with a degree in psychology, and I am currently getting my master's degree in environmental science from Northeastern University. As a kid I spent every summer around the Lakes Region. I am beyond excited that now, as an adult, I can help protect one of my favorite places in the world.

Tucker - The Nature Conservancy

Hello, my name is Tucker Callahan, and I'm happy to be a member of the Lakes Region Conservation Corps! I grew up in North Andover Massachusetts, and I'm excited to be working to protect the natural beauty of the area where I was raised.

I attended Macalester College, where I studied Biology and Environmental Science. My studies taught me the importance of environmental conservation and inspired me to get involved in organizations like the LRCC. I'm thrilled to be putting my knowledge into practice and working with a team of like-minded individuals to make a difference in our community.

In my free time, I enjoy fishing and reading. I love spending time outdoors, hiking, camping, and exploring new trails.

Zach - Green Mountain Conservation Group

Hi, my name is Zach, I am from Hopkinton New Hampshire, and I studied environmental policy and planning at the University of Maine at Farmington. I am very outdoorsy, mainly because I grew up ski racing, but also because I really enjoy camping and hiking during the warmer months. I also enjoy reading and hanging out with friends, but most of all I am excited to be working with Green Mountain Conversation Group.

2022-2023 Full-Year Lakes Region Conservation Corps

Alexa - Squam Lakes Association

Hi! My name is Alexa and I grew up in Clearwater, Florida where I spent my summers scuba diving and exploring the ocean as much as possible. In 2021, I graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in Environmental Engineering (go gators!). My love of environmental work grew in college while working in a salt marsh ecology lab and I’ve spent my time post-grad pursuing as many hands-on conservation work experiences as possible. So far, this has included working on a backcountry trails crew in Idaho and working with the Hydrology team in Yellowstone National Park. I’m passionate about natural resource management, environmental education, and conservation (especially pertaining to aquatic resources), so I’m so excited to be working with the Squam Lakes Association through the LRCC! In my free time, I can be found hiking, backpacking, trail running, and cooking with friends.

Grace - Green Mountain Conservation Group

Hi y’all! My name is Grace Kennedy and I am from Charleston, West Virginia. I recently graduated from WVU with my bachelors in Multidisciplinary Studies, my focuses were Geology, Geography, and Sociology.

I love doing, seeing, trying things. Hiking, traveling, making art, or trying to boulder any rock I see. I am also a huge nature and people lover so you can find me striking up a random conversation or trying to get outside.

I am excited about environmental/geo science and hope to pursue some kind of environmental protection or education role in my future.

I look forward to being apart of Team Green!

Hailey - Green Mountain Conservation Group

Hello everyone, my name is Hailey Williams! I am from Midlothian, Texas, a small town where I spent most of my time reading, drawing, hiking, camping, and enjoying the environment and wildlife around me. I am a recent graduate from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, where I received a B.A. in Forestry, with a concentration in Forest Wildlife Management. During my degree, I completed an internship as a field technician on a Bachmann’s Sparrow graduate research project, where I assisted in clarifying the species’ western range and associated habitat preferences. I look forward to being a part of the LRCC Americorps program and working with the Green Mountain Conservation Group to conduct vital surveys and educational outreach to preserve the aquatic resources of the Ossipee watershed for current and future generations to enjoy.

Meaghan - Squam Lakes Association

Meaghan hails from the east coast of the United States, where she can visit the mountains, the sea, and the forests in between. She studied science and art, then found an internship at a nature conservancy, which pleasantly combined both. Continuing her work in the natural world, she recently led a trail maintenance crew at nearby VYCC. She looks forward to working with new people in new places and exploring different ways to contribute to the betterment of the world. She also paints designs on shirts and could paint one for you if you like!

Shannon - Squam Lakes Association

Hello, my name is Shannon Peachey. I have lived in many states, including Idaho, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania. My most recent residence was in Pittsburgh, PA. In May ‘22 I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science from Lebanon Valley College. My studies focused on conservation ecology and sustainability. At LVC I have helped promote campus sustainability by writing newsletters and overseeing the social events conducted by the campus Sustainability House. Following graduation, I started working at REI to help connect people to the outdoors.

There are many things I am interested in, but my ultimate passion is connecting people to the outdoors and helping people pursue sustainable lifestyles. When I am not working or studying, you can find me hiking, eating, weight lifting, playing the trumpet, or hanging out with my cat named Stormy. I have dreamed of working outside with my hands and making nature accessible to people of all backgrounds, so I am incredibly excited to be a part of the LRCC and to protect and learn more about conservation at Squam Lakes.

Virginia - Squam Lakes Association

Hi all! My name's Virginia, and I grew up in Boscawen, New Hampshire. My love of the outdoors started with the pond in my backyard, largely due to getting to watch frogs grow up from eggs to through adulthood! I graduated from Mount Holyoke College in 2021 with a BA in Biological Sciences with a minor in Geology. The past year I've worked in a genetics lab, and I missed getting to be outside, so I'm very excited to get back to fieldwork and spending time in the sun (and rain!). In my free time, I like cross stitching, a good mug of tea, and spending time with my friends and family.

2022 Half-Year Lakes Region Conservation Corps

Andy - Squam Lakes Association

Hello! My name is Andy O’Sullivan and I’m from Cape Cod, Massachusetts. I recently graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a degree in Natural Resources Conservation, concentrating in Fisheries Ecology and Conservation. I spent the last three years working closely with the SCUBA program on campus, working as a teaching assistant and earning various certifications up to the Rescue Diver level. I’ve always been passionate about maintaining our aquatic resources and promoting environmental stewardship, and so I’m wicked excited to be working with the LRCC and serve with the Squam Lakes Association! In my free time I enjoy kayaking, hiking, and swimming, and I have a penchant for picking up any wild animal I can (safely) get my hands on.

Anna - Lakes Region Conservation Trust

Hi! My name is Anna Stockman and I’m from Concord, NH. After graduating from the University of New Hampshire in 2020 with a Bachelor’s degree in Community and Environmental Planning and a minor in Environmental Conservation and Sustainability, I moved to Maine to work as a planner at a nonprofit organization. In college, I had a fellowship at UNH Cooperative Extension where I took part in a research project to measure perceptions of community resilience in northern New Hampshire. As a planner in Maine, working directly with municipalities to develop plans for their future growth involved researching potential impacts certain land use decisions could have on critical natural resources. I am passionate about bettering communities through equitable, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable approaches. With roots in the lakes region, I am particularly excited to work with and support the mission of the Lakes Region Conservation Trust.

Anthony - Newfound Lake Region Association

My name is Anthony Jaster, I was born in Fremont, California and lived there before moving to Wisconsin. I started college at Madison College in Wisconsin and then transferred to University of Alaska Fairbanks. I lived in Fairbanks, Alaska for four years, I will be completing my degree this summer. My major is in Fisheries with a minor in Computer Information and Technology. Some of my interests include: being outside, backpacking, fishing, hiking, running and building/working on computers.

Ashley - Squam Lakes Association

Howdy, I'm Ashley! I'm from middle-of-nowhere Warrensburg, Missouri. I've spent my time in the Midwest working in streams, woods, and prairies, doing conservation work at Knob Noster State Park and swimming with the fishes with my trusty GoPro Hero. My greatest interests are animal behavior and animal intelligence, both of which I've studied as a part of my work in the Hubbard Bird Lab at Truman State University, leading my own small field lab in examining songbird responses to vocal mimicry by Blue Jays. Our results will be published this summer, so feel free to ask me for a rough draft! I'm graduating in May of 2022 with a BS in Biology, after which I'm hitting the road to New Hampshire. Outside of the lab, you may find me building giant snowmen, training in various combat sports, birdwatching, and hanging out with my pet tree frog (unfortunately not all at the same time).

Brittney - Green Mountain Conservation Group

Brittney studied Biology with a concentration in Ecology and Conservation at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. She has been pursuing a career in ecology and conservation working in partnership with federal agencies such as U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and the National Park Service. A large part of Brittney's career has been working on conservation efforts and protective measures for the federally listed Mojave Desert tortoise in the U.S. southwest. Brittney is excited to gain experience and learn about freshwater ecology and New Hampshire's ecosystems.

Cris - Squam Lakes Association

Hi! I'm Cris. I'm coming to New Hampshire from the Finger Lakes region of New York, but I was born in Massachusetts and grew up in Vermont, where I spent my childhood running around the woods in search of birds' nests and red efts and bears. (I never did find the bears!) I started out my academic career in mathematics, earned an M.A. from the University of Rochester, and spent some time running a community college math center. Eventually, though, my love of the outdoors called me back; I went back to school for conservation work, and graduated this spring with an A.A.S. in Fish & Wildlife Technology from Finger Lakes Community College in Canandaigua, NY. In addition to wandering the outdoors looking for cool things, I also love kayaking, swimming, writing, and puzzles of all kinds. I'm incredibly excited for the opportunity to gain intensive hands-on experience in lake conservation and stewardship with the LRCC and Squam Lakes Association, and to share my enthusiasm for nature with others!

Emerson - Squam Lakes Conservation Society

Hi all! My name is Emerson and I come from Dayton, Ohio. You can usually find me hiking, baking, kayaking, or hanging out in my hammock. I’ll be graduating this May from the University of Dayton with a BS in Environmental Biology. At UD, I was able to grow my interest in protecting ecosystems in a forestry research lab where I work. I have been involved in a leadership and civic engagement group called River Stewards at UD for the past 3 years where we focus on protecting and promoting the Great Miami River to the local community. I was also fortunate enough to study abroad in Australia and experience their beautiful landscapes with unique creatures. I’m excited about joining the Squam Lakes Conservation Society to kick off my career in conservation! I’m especially eager to meet like-minded people who are passionate about making a difference by protecting the natural resources lakes provide us.

Emily - Squam Lakes Conservation Society

Hello! My name is Emily Carty and I am excited to be an Americorps member at Squam Lakes Conservation Society this summer and fall. I am from Sweden, Maine, and recently graduated from Bates College, (May 2022) where I majored in anthropology and minored in history. I spent last summer as an intern at a local land trust, which inspired me to write my senior thesis on the way amateur naturalists engage with non-human species. Aside from my studies, I enjoy cross country skiing and ice skating in the winter, and like to spend time hiking, running, and swimming during the summer.

Eva - Squam Lakes Association

Hello! My name is Eva Anderson, and I am from Lakewood, Colorado. I grew up swimming, reading, and exploring the beautiful state I get to call home. Since I was young, I have always had a passion for the environment. This led me to attend the University of Colorado Boulder to study Ecology and Evolutionary Biology with a minor in Spanish Language and Culture. CU offered me many amazing opportunities, including my current job as a researcher in an entomology lab, looking at super cool insects under a microscope from different areas of Colorado. My time at CU further deepened my passion and helped me realize that I want a career that involves aquatic and/or marine ecosystems, even though insects are quite spectacular. This sparked a desire to get an Open Water Diver certification and spend the summer of 2021 in New Hampshire, where I fell in love with the state and the people. Following my graduation in December of 2021, I promptly searched for more opportunities on the East coast. This led me to the Squam Lake Region Conservation Corps program. I am so excited to spend 5 months on the lake, exploring and protecting it.

Fallon - Lakes Region Conservation Trust

Hi everyone, I’m Fallon!! I am from Gloucester, Massachusetts, so it goes without saying that I love the ocean, and most days in the summer you can find me on the beach (goggles and snorkel in tow). I graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a BS in Natural Resources Conservation. During my time at UMass I had the incredible opportunity to participate in two domestic exchanges and studied in Hawai’i and Montana. Spending a semester in each of these places broadened my horizons greatly and hiking an active volcano, swimming amongst sea turtles, and seeing the famous Yellowstone wolves in person solidified my love for nature and assured me that environmental conservation is the path meant for me in life. I am so excited to be part of the LRCC AmeriCorps program working with the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, it’s going to be a great season!

Jake - Merrimack River Watershed Council

Hello, my name is Jake and I am from Shrewsbury, Massachusetts. I graduated from UMass Amherst in the spring of 2020 with a BS in Natural Resources Conservation and an undergraduate certificate in Public Policy. I have previously interned for the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge in Connecticut and spent the last year working as a park ranger at Dead Horse Point State Park in Moab, Utah. Both experiences helped me develop my environmental education and teaching skills, and I am very excited to apply these abilities to the world of environmental non-profits by working for MRWC this summer.

In my free time I enjoy hiking, kayaking, ice skating, and playing guitar. I used to row on my high school’s crew team, and I have fond memories of participating in crew races on the Merrimack river. I look forward to working to protect this beautiful resource and making connections with like-minded individuals throughout the watershed.

James - Camp Hale

Hello, my name is James Finn. I am 23 years old, a first generation Irish-American, and a recent college graduate with a Bachelors degree in Biology from Elmhurst University. I am excited for this opportunity and hopefully will be able to develop the skills I learn toward helping the public and youth understand the importance of nature in our lives. A little about myself, I played soccer since I was 5 years old finishing up as a college soccer athlete, I helped create an E-sports organization at Elmhurst University that has successfully developed into a school recognized program, and I love reading books especially anything Sci-Fi or Fantasy.

Jenna - Newfound Lake Region Association

Jenna grew up in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia and obtained her bachelor's degree in Environmental Geoscience from Valdosta State University. In 2017, she moved to Albany, Georgia where she worked as an Environmental Specialist for the state government. Her passion for the outdoors grew as she spent her days in Southwest Georgia hunting white-tailed deer on public lands, fishing for shoal bass in the Flint River, and backpacking trails in nearby state parks.

As a new resident of New Hampshire, Jenna hopes to bring a fresh outlook to the conservation efforts at Newfound Lake. She is thrilled to utilize her existing knowledge and learn new skillsets in order to be a productive member of the NLRA team as she embarks on her new journey as a Watershed Steward.

Liam - Squam Lakes Association

Liam is a former tradesmen making the transition to working outdoors with aspirations of being a conservation officer. He is from Somersworth New Hampshire and attended school there. He enjoys camping, hiking and the outdoors.

Macie - Squam Lakes Association

I'm Macie! I'm from Derry NH, and I recently graduated from Keene State College where I received a bachelor's degree in biology. My education was supplemented with work in a lab where I researched genotypic diversity in seagrasses. I also worked in and ran the on-campus greenhouse. When I wasn't studying or taking care of plants, you probably would've found me in the ceramics studio working on a sculpture. In my free time, I like to cook and try new foods, go on hikes and bike rides (especially if there's a swimming hole somewhere along the way!), and see live music. As a New Hampshire native, most of my life was spent exploring and adventuring in the Granite State's great outdoors, and I'm excited to continue that journey here at Squam Lake!

Madison - Green Mountain Conservation Group

I grew up in Londonderry New Hampshire and spent my childhood running barefoot through the woods and catching frogs. This spring I graduated from Ithaca College where I majored in writing and minored in environmental studies. I'm passionate about science communication and enjoy educating people about the natural world.

Nathan - Squam Lakes Association

Hi! My name is Nathan and I'm originally from Memphis, TN. For the past 9 years, though, I've lived in Phoenix, AZ. I'm a recent graduate of Arizona State University, where I studied Ecology and Parks & Protected Area Management. The outdoors, biology, exploration, and passionate people are some of my favorite things, so I'm extremely excited to be pursuing a career that combines them all! To be able to do conservation work while exploring, meeting new people, and enjoying the outdoors is a dream that's currently coming true for me! Some of my favorite hobbies include playing video games, jammin out on the keyboard or trombone, creating things, and going on spontaneous adventures.