Plant Ecologist
After graduating from Brevard College in 2008 with a BS in Environmental Science and Minor in Geology, Owen began his professional career with Equinox in 2010, working as a field technician and gaining skills in natural resources management. With an innate love of botany and ecology, Owen eventually found himself filling the role of the Plant Ecologist, consulting on a wide variety of projects for Equinox. He is trained in NC Surface Water Identification, Wetlands Delineation, and Forest Inventory and Analysis/Forest Health Monitoring. Owen also holds a NC Pesticide Applicator's License (#026-29539), and has over 4 years experience managing invasive exotic plants. In addition, he is a Certified Associate Ecologist with the Ecological Society of America. His passion for exploring native plants and habitats fuels his free-time activities, which include gardening, backpacking, climbing and drawing.
Why I Love This Work
It allows me to explore, discover, and protect this incredibly diverse natural world in hopes that future generations will do the same.
Trainings & Certifications
NC Surface Water Identification (2013); Wetland Delineation (2014); Wetland Shrubs ID (2013); Certified Associate Ecologist (ESA 2012); Forest Inventory & Analysis/Forest Health Monitoring (2010); NC Licensed Pesticide Applicator #026-29539 (NCDA&CS 2011); Sedges of the Southern Appalachians (HBS 2014); CVS Vegetation Monitoring Protocol, Levels I-IV (CVS-EEP 2011)
Education
Bachelors of Science: Environmental Science; Minor: Geology - Brevard College 2008
Skills
Microsoft Tools: Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Access, Publisher; ESRI ArcGIS 9.3, 10; Project Management, budget management, subcontractor management; volunteer coordination; Botanical surveys/inventories; natural resources inventory; stakeholder facilitation; open space & habitat management
Favorite Species
Yellow birch - Betula alleghaniensis. Besides being stunningly beautiful, with shaggy golden bark and having a wintergreen flavor, this high-elevation species persists in even the harshest environments by adapting its form, which I consider an admirable trait for all living things.