When I first applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Directorate Fellows Program (USFWS DFP), COVID-19 had been raging for about 9 months in the U.S. There was still a lot of uncertainty and fear, even with the first doses of a vaccine rolling out to essential workers. The anxiety and hope about the vaccine was reflected by my feelings on what my upcoming year might look like. About four months later I could hardly contain my excitement when I received an offer to intern with the USFWS Carlsbad, CA field office through the DFP. My excitement was slightly dampened when I found out I would be working remotely instead of spending the summer in southern California due to COVID. However, I was still thrilled for the opportunity to work with and learn about USFWS!
For as long as I can remember I’ve felt a connection to the natural world around me. I wanted to learn more about nature, so I took an interest in biology courses at school and eventually decided I wanted to pursue a biology degree in college. I learned more about ecosystems, adaptation, evolution, and how organisms can interact with their environments. I also got involved in ecological research as an undergraduate and my curiosity was peaked. I knew I wanted a career in conservation – to help protect, preserve, and restore the natural world that has brought me peace and joy throughout the years. To help achieve my goal, I’ve been pursuing a doctorate degree. But when I heard about the DFP I jumped at the opportunity. I knew it would be an amazing opportunity to work with USFWS and make connections that could lead to my dream career down the road. So I applied and here I am!
I’m currently finishing up my fourth week as a fellow! The first week was a whirlwind, but I felt more settled by the end of the second week. I’m working with the Listing and Recovery division of the Carlsbad Field Office on completing two species assessments for at-risk, endangered, or threatened species. My first assessment covers the San Bernardino Mountains bladderpod (see photos below), a federally threatened plant species only found on carbonate soils in the San Bernardino Mountains. For the second assessment I’m focusing on the Santa Catalina Island ornate shrew, a mammal only found on the island. So far I’ve been reading through background information for each species and reaching out to partners to learn more in order to complete each assessment. Even though I've been working remote, my supervisors and fellow USFWS Carlsbad office employees have been very welcoming and supporting. I'm working with a great group of people! Check back over the summer for more updates on how the species assessments and my fellowship are going!
-Kaitlyn Howell
Top: San Bernardino Mountains bladderpod habitat.
Bottom: Up close photo of a San Bernardino Mountains bladderpod.
Photos courtesy of Mary Crawford
Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Program: US Fish & Wildlife Service - DFP
Location: Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office