Cedar Hill, Texas, United States
As the Nature and Open Space Coordinator, Katie leads and manages the development and implementation of the city's nature and open space programs, including the city's Bird City certification. She serves as a liaison and strategic relationship builder between partners and local organizations, focusing on connecting the Cedar hill community to their local environment. She assists in the natural resource and conservation management of the city's green spaces and parks. Warm, empathetic, outgoing and friendly professional with over ten years of experience in the environmental field. Adaptable to teaching communities and people of all ages; specializing in elementary (grade K-6). Focusing on ornithology, camping, hiking, kayaking and a variety of other environmental education topics. Katie passionately serves within the community and works to empower people through positive outdoor experiences, encouraging them to understand who they are through the word of God. Working to bridge the gap between faith, science and creation care. Katie is also involved in organizations like Meat Fight, supporting people living with multiple sclerosis and Indian Trail Master Naturalists.
Leads the development and implementation of the City’s nature and open space programs. Strategic partner and relationship builder to local organizations to serve in coordinating, building and developing nature related programs. Focuses on connecting the Cedar Hill community to their local environment. Manages the City's Bird City program. Assists in the natural resource and conservation management of green/open space and parks.
Coordinates, promotes and implements volunteer programs that support the Open Space Program Works directly with Open Space member city staff, maintenance organizations, and volunteers. Creates and maintains relationships with educational institutions, wildlife and habitat organizations, and other relevant for and non-profit agencies to coordinate activities in the Open Space Preserves. Builds relationships with organizations to assist in the implementation of Open Space programs. Manages wildlife, botanical, and cultural resources within County preserves and parks.
Manages on-site and Eco Investigations school programs. Manages education volunteers and part-time interns. Manages, develops and leads public programs and community partnerships. Oversees and implements the development of Scout programs. Animal Care Lead - Responsible for the husbandry of native animals including, snakes, turtles, American Kestrel, Barred Owl. Responsible for training staff/volunteers in their care. Responsible for acquiring new specimens. Leads educational programs for K-12 students and summer camp. Designs curriculum aligned to TX TEKS and STEM. Leads additional educational programming including night hikes, Scout groups, and DCAC events. North Central Texas Master Bird certification and Indian Trail Master Naturalist certification.
Certified American Red Cross lifeguard. Responsible for the care and safety of patrons in the public use of the pool. Developed and led YMCA progressive swim lessons.
Performed mobile home park inspections, municipal water supply inspections. Assisted in lead home inspection remediations. Maintained data entry/collection and record keeping.