This episode take us to Florida to learn about some amazing conservation efforts taking place to protect endangered and important species like the Florida Panther and The Florida grasshopper sparrow which is considered the most endangered bird species in the continental U.S. with fewer than 80 adult birds left in the wild.

Our guest is Julie Morris of the National Wildlife Refuge Association.  Julie holds the position of Florida and Gulf Programs Manager for the National Wildlife Refuge Association. Julie has over 23 years’ experience working in the conservation field. Julie has a wide breadth of experience and knowledge, from working as a wildlife biologist and land manager to land protection implementation, land conservation program development, and advocating for land conservation funding and programs.

Julie works with all levels of governmental agencies and private entities to: develop conservation plans for protected wildlife species, identify conservation lands and protection strategies; develop reserve designs, management and policy, community education and outreach and stakeholder coordination. Her passion is assisting landowners in protecting their natural and agricultural lands; she has extensive knowledge and experience in land acquisition and easement programs, and other conservation incentive programs that can assist landowners and achieve conservation goals. Julie served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in the Dominican Republic and has worked in conservation and rural development in Latin America and Central Asia Julie holds a Master’s degree in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation from the University of Florida.