This spring, we welcomed four new student Natural Area Assistants to the Lakeshore Nature Preserve who received a crash course in equipment operation, plant identification, and ecological restoration techniques to stay ahead of the Preserve’s restoration and maintenance needs. Their on-the-job learning will continue through the summer as they provide the care needed to maintain the 300-acre Preserve.
Ryan Druhot is a rising senior from New Jersey studying Conservation Biology who wanted field experience to round out his in-class learning. Ryan praised Adam Gundlach, “Whenever he shows us something new, he explains how it impacts the work we’re doing and the Preserve as a whole. Ryan has enjoyed the Preserve since his freshman year when he and his friends found a favorite spot to relax along the water on the Temin Lakeshore Path.
Vanghuam ‘Vang’ Lee is a Forest and Wildlife Ecology senior from Milwaukee. Vang said he applied for the position not only to gain hands-on experience but because nature has been integral to his life since childhood and he wants to do his part to take care of it. He is thankful to be able to enjoy the sun and the melody of bird songs while working outdoors. One of his most memorable experiences in the Preserve was being watched by a Bard owl while pruning trails at Frautschi Point.
Connor Roberson is a rising senior from Minneapolis majoring in Forest and Wildlife Ecology and Science Communication. He applied for the position because he learns best in a hands-on environment. Connor enjoys working in the different parts of the Preserve, each with distinct characteristics that set them apart, making every day feel fresh. His favorite spot is the Big Oak Trail in Frautschi Point Woods, and he’s seen a surprising number of painted turtles and turkey vultures in the Preserve.
Jude Whale, who hails from Wauwatosa, will be a junior in Forest Science and Statistics. He wanted to work in the Preserve to learn more about Wisconsin’s vegetation and gain more land management experience. Jude feels his plant identification skills have improved because he works with people who are willing to share and teach. He said there is something new to see in the Preserve every day. His favorite sightings include a baby crane, a beaver, and many beautiful oak trees.
The Natural Area Assistant positions are funded by donations to the Preserve Stewardship Fund, the Kelly Family Foundation – E. David Cronon Stewardship Fellows Fund of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve, and the Friends of the Lakeshore Nature Preserve.