How long have you worked at Clarkson & Woods?
I started at Clarkson & Woods in 2010 as an assistant ecologist when we were Michael Woods Associates. Since this time, I have seen the company change from our original team of 4 into the passionate, friendly, and knowledgeable team of 25 we now are today. During the last 14 years we have grown together and supported each other making the company the success it is today, and I am honoured to be a part of that. I am now part of company management, and, as a team, we are constantly striving to improve all aspects of our work from keeping on top of new survey methodologies and technologies and emerging policies to company wellbeing and mental health.
As a company we are involved in a huge range of projects, with no two being the same; meaning that the work remains interesting and variable day to day. Every site comes with its challenges, but our team are always approachable and on hand to offer advice and assistance to work together to reach the best solutions for both biodiversity and our clients. Looking ahead, with the Environment Act now in place and further changes in technology and strategic policy imminent it’s an exciting time to be involved in consultancy and I am looking forward to what positive changes and opportunities lie ahead.
I enjoy the flexibility offered through the company and my position to maintain a balance of field and office-based work. I do have my favourite species I like to work with, which are undoubtedly herptiles and dormice (and not just because these are fair weather species to survey!). However, we all get involved and pitch in with everything where we can.
How did you get into Ecology?
Before starting at Clarkson & Woods I worked for a multi-disciplinary environmental consultancy for 4 years gaining experience in a range of disciplines which, amongst ecology, included socio-economic, air quality, contaminated land and noise assessments. These experiences were invaluable in providing a founding and wider understanding of EIA and the interaction of all environmental and technical disciplines, although ecology was by far and large where I wanted to dedicate my time and career, which is why, when the opportunity arose, I went for the job at Michael Woods Associates.
I grew up immersed in nature near Morecambe Bay, often frequenting Leighton Moss after avidly reading my YOC magazine and spending many childhood weekends exploring in our old family VW campervan and on long walks in the Lake district, Yorkshire moors and Scotland. Following on from this passion as a child, I decided to start a career in wildlife and conservation and gained a BSc in Environmental Biology, combined with a year in industry working for the Environment Agency and subsequently a MSc in Ecology and the Environment.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
During my spare time I am happiest exploring somewhere outdoors with my son and husband. To keep my little boy (and myself) entertained trips are often interspersed with made up stories, play battles or learning about myths and legends of places we visit; be that water nymphs and trolls on Dartmoor to sea dragons along the coast. We’re so lucky living in the southwest and having such an option of beaches as well as other habitats and wild areas including heathlands and moors on our doorstep to explore – where I am usually found off the beaten path trying to spot adders or lizards. Becoming a parent has also opened my eyes to the passion, opportunities, and enthusiasm of children and out of personal interest and betterment, within the last few years, I have also gained my Level 1 and Level 2 certification in assisting with forest school, amongst other qualifications. I am also an active member of our village school PTA where I can often be found peddling sweets in the playground or dressed as a giant rabbit running the annual easter egg hunt.
