Over these 11 weeks, I learned tons about Franklin’s bumble bee ecology, conservation, and life history. I gained invaluable skills especially in GIS (Geographical Information Systems), writing, and working closely with colleagues on large projects. These skills will help me in my future conservation career. I am so thankful to have an opportunity to learn more about the Fish and Wildlife Service and pollinator conservation.

During the last week of my internship, I have really seen how important and helpful the work I completed is for the Fish and Wildlife Service and for Franklin’s bumble bee conservation. We received wonderful feedback from the National Pollinator Advisory Team after giving them a presentation on our projects. We provided specific recommendations for pollinator conservation within the Service and these suggestions were taken seriously. I was also able to see direct outcomes of my efforts within the field office I worked in. They hope to build upon our project and follow our recommendations for Franklin’s bumble bee conservation. It was so encouraging to see how my work has greater impacts. This encourages me as I move forward in my career, and I look forward to working further on conservation!

Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Program: US Fish & Wildlife Service - DFP

Location: Yreka Fish and Wildlife Office