(UNDATED) – The Indiana Invasives Initiative has hired Kaila Knies as the new Regional Specialist for Southeastern
Indiana who began on April 22nd, 2019.
The counties covered include Clarke, Harrison, Floyd, Crawford, Perry, Orange, Washington, Lawrence, Jackson, Spencer, Warrick, Gibson, Posey, Pike, and Vanderburgh.
Kaila has a degree in Biology from the University of Evansville, and a strong passion for conservation. During her time at the University of Evansville, she worked as a Resource Management Technician at Spring Mill State Park for the Department of Natural Resources. At Spring Mill, she was responsible for removing invasive species, surveying invasive species populations, and planting native species.
Kaila has also volunteered on several projects including the University of Evansville’s native plant garden, the Vectren Conservation Park restoration project, and the Wesselman Woods herbivory research project.
“I am eager to get started with the Indiana Invasives Initiative and get to know all the wonderful people in my counties who are passionate about conservation! I want our communities to come together and discover the momentous impact they can have on our treasured natural areas and how to protect those areas from invasive species,” said Kaila.
SICIM’s Chair Ray Chattin stated, “It is very exciting to see the III continue to build capacity and attract this kind of talent and expertise. The significance of this program and its impact on sustaining the diversity and productivity of our native ecosystems can’t be overstated. I think its historic.” Â
She can be reached at kaila@sicim.info or call 812-631-7913.
