I'm officially halfway through my program, and I can't believe that went by so fast. It has been an amazing experience being part of the refuge system and seeing how a refuge is ran. Things can be very variable, but there is never a dull day! Being a small refuge, it's been very interesting seeing what a project developed from start looks like, and it's been fun carrying out the tasks. The teamwork is phenomenal, everyone cares about the benefit of the refuge and is so willing to help each other out, making it feel like a true team. 

There was a fire last weekend caused by thunder that covered a little over 1200 acres of land in the refuge. It was a sad weekend for all; and although I haven't been here for too long, I couldn't help but feel saddened by all the lost habitat, and all the work that I know they have put into the refuge. Although sad to see, the site project leader pointed out the benefits a clear slate will have on the future restoration efforts. It made me realize things aren't forever and it's better to look at the bright side moving forward. It also highlighted the effects of climate change in action and made me realize fire management will take a big part of land management specially here in the West. 

With the few last online semesters, it has been awesome to be able to spend time out in the field and put my ecological learnings to use. It has been much fun seeing all the different species of plants and animals and seeing how they all live together. Each day I see a different type of animal or insect I hadn't seen before which is amazing. This week I also spotted the Northern Mexican garter snake for the first time at the Bill Williams River since my first survey efforts. Unfortunately, she was very quick to hide under leaves, and I didn't get to take a picture. It hadn't been spotted for 7 years, and then 100 years before that. I feel thrilled to know that they are present in the area, and hopeful that I will continue to encounter them. 

Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Program: Directorate Fellows Program

Location: Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge