About Dr. Jessica Hardesty Norris is a biologist with over 20 years of experience in ecological planning and research, program development, strategic planning and community outreach for natural resource conservation. She has demonstrated success in proposal writing, partnership building, and project management. Her recent project work includes park planning for Charleston County and leading Biohabitats’ engagement in a 100-mile greenway along the Chattahoochee, often with a focus on writing and communication. Her areas of technical expertise include bird conservation, urban ecology, nutrient cycling, sustainable fisheries, and community outreach and engagement. She has presented and published papers on topics related to conservation biology, tropical ecology, and ornithology. Jessica currently serves on the Boards of Audubon South Carolina and College of Charleston’s Sustainability Institute, and as Natural Resources Chair of the Charleston League of Women Voters. * Conservation ecologist and specialist in birds * Primarily ecological planning at Biohabitats * Former president and active in Charleston Audubon, board member of Audubon SC * BS Humboldt State University, Peace Corps Ecuador, studied bird migration for PhD from Duke Show Notes In this episode of the Rewilding Earth Podcast, Jessica shares her journey from an organismal biologist to making significant contributions on the ground through with Biohabitats. She discusses rewilding, ecological restoration, and the importance of landscape connectivity. Jessica explains her transition from working on tropical ecosystems to engaging with urban and peri-urban restoration projects. She highlights the significance of bridging academic, federal, and local efforts in conservation and the evolving roles of conservation professionals. Jessica also reflects on her philosophical perspective gained through various roles, emphasizing the need for adaptability and seizing unexpected opportunities for small to large-scale ecological changes. 00:00 Introduction 00:38 Jessica’s Journey to Biohabitats 02:32 The Role of Restoration Companies in Conservation 03:22 National and Local Conservation Efforts 06:13 Future Opportunities and Challenges in Conservation 11:35 The Importance of Small-Scale Restoration 19:06 Private Landowners and Ecological Restoration 22:32 Collaborations and Learning from Contractors 25:44 Career Advice and Personal Reflections 27:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Extra Credit * Check out the work Jessica and the team at Biohabitats are doing! * Large-scale recovery example mentioned in this episode: Gorongosa National Park, ep 57 About Dr. Jessica Hardesty Norris is a biologist with over 20 years of experience in ecological planning and research, program development, strategic planning and community outreach for natural resource conservation. She has demonstrated success in proposal writing, partnership building, and project management. Her recent project work includes park planning for Charleston County and leading Biohabitats’ engagement in a 100-mile greenway along the Chattahoochee, often with a focus on writing and communication. Her areas of technical expertise include bird conservation, urban ecology, nutrient cycling, sustainable fisheries, and community outreach and engagement. She has presented and published papers on topics related to conservation biology, tropical ecology, and ornithology. Jessica currently serves on the Boards of Audubon South Carolina and College of Charleston’s Sustainability Institute, and as Natural Resources Chair of the Charleston League of Women Voters.