Biography

I am a Natural Resources Planner for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources serving as the fishery management plans coordinator and leading a project to develop climate adaptation strategies for the state's fisheries management system. My academic background is in coastal ecology and fisheries biology with a focus on the salt marsh ecosystem and blue crabs. Through my recent fellowship with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, I determined options for incorporating climate considerations in fishery management plans, licensing, and gear selection, which resulted in the passing of state legislation that advances climate adaptation and resilience planning for state-managed fisheries. I also assisted leading the development of Maryland's NextGen statewide climate adaptation plan, which facilitates interagency coordination across needs for human health, infrastructure, and natural resources management.