The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Colette DeGarady will tell you not to let the pretty lavender blossoms floating along the river fool you. It's water hyacinth, a non-native invasive that can choke out healthy water ecosystems. A conservation ecologist and plant expert, Colette earned a master’s in zoology from Southern Illinois University. A member of the SC Native Plant Society, Colette often leads wildflower walks and shares information about native plant use

 

Nature.org:

Colette DeGarady:

I've always been a fan of animals. Growing up, we had numerous pets, from chickens to lizards to ferrets. I tried working in pet stores, zoos, and for a veterinarian while going through high school and college. I realized that I really wanted to be outdoors and have some variety in my day-to-day activities. I also realized that the best way to help animals was to protect the habitat they need to live.

Nature.org:

Colette DeGarady:

I believe in pulling in young people as volunteers as often as possible. It's great to see a major transformation in their thinking when they experience field work on the ground and understand what conservation is and how individuals can make a difference. One of my college student volunteers recently said, "I can't believe you do this for a living." I feel the same way most days.

Nature.org:

Colette DeGarady:

We did have an alligator attack our work truck last year while we were driving on a small forest road. I'm not sure who he thought he was up against, but the fog light didn't quite make it.

Nature.org:

Colette DeGarady:

I'd probably choose our fire manager, Tom Dooley. I'm sure he could come up with a way to create some smoke signals for a rescue. Plus, he's usually a pretty happy guy. Who wouldn't be when you get to play with fire.