Riley Dehr
Denver,CO
Summary
I am a dedicated conservation professional with hands-on experience in habitat restoration, invasive species control, and environmental education. As skilled in operating heavy machinery, ATVs, tractors, and chainsaws as managing a class of kindergartners.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Invasive Species Removal Crew Lead
Rocky Mt. Arsenal Natl. Wildlife Refuge
07.2025 - Current
- Work closely with refuge leadership to accomplish short and long-term project goals.
- Train crew members on the safe use of pesticides and a variety of other duties.
- Manage team members in order to enhance work quality and address concerns.
- Conduct vegetation surveys and invasive species assessments.
Trails and Infrastructure Technician
Rocky Flats Natl. Wildlife Refuge
10.2024 - 07.2025
- Constructed and maintained over 15 miles of trails using heavy machinery and other construction techniques.
- Coordinated volunteer activities focused on invasive species removal.
- Worked as liaison between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and partners from Federal Highways Admin. on a multi-million dollar expansion of the Rocky Mt. Greenway Trail.
- Maintained a high degree of adaptability and safety as the sole full-time employee on a 6,000 acre refuge.
Invasive Species Removal Crew Member
Rocky Mt. Arsenal Natl. Wildlife Refuge
04.2024 - 10.2024
- Became adept in integrated pest management and habitat management techniques.
- Received state and federal certifications in the mixing and application of pesticides in accordance with environmental safety standards.
- Operated chainsaws and received certification to conduct mechanical removal of trees and woody vegetation, enhancing native habitat for wildlife.
- Worked with and in close proximity to elk, black-footed ferrets, bison and other wildlife as part of USFWS surveys and daily operations.
- Spent +100 hours clearing invasive vegetation using tractors and skid steers.
Bilingual Youth Education Coordinator
Denver Urban Gardens
02.2023 - 04.2024
- Educated hundreds of students in English and Spanish on how to successfully grow food in school-based gardens.
- Developed bilingual lesson plans focused on horticulture, biodiversity, cultural heritage, and scientific standards.
- Utilized mixed media in order to promote educational activities, including video tutorials, a monthly newsletter, and in-person classes.
- Maintained relationships with school administrators and staff to coordinate educational program delivery.
- Kept diligent records in order to ensure compliance with grants and track program outcomes.
Full-Time Volunteer
Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary
08.2022 - 10.2022
- Worked in close-contact with wildlife in order to provide food, enrichment, and other services to ensure their well-being.
- Conducted educational tours to visitors on issues like animal conservation, habitat restoration, and the illegal pet-trade.
Education
Masters in Natural Resource Stewardship - Ecological Restoration
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO05-2026
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Law And Policy
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI08-2021
Skills
Environmental Education
Habitat Restoration
Bilingual (En/Es)
Integrated Pest Management
Team Leadership
Animal Rehabilitation
Languages
English
Spanish
Timeline
Invasive Species Removal Crew Lead
Rocky Mt. Arsenal Natl. Wildlife Refuge
07.2025 - Current
Trails and Infrastructure Technician
Rocky Flats Natl. Wildlife Refuge
10.2024 - 07.2025
Invasive Species Removal Crew Member
Rocky Mt. Arsenal Natl. Wildlife Refuge
04.2024 - 10.2024
Bilingual Youth Education Coordinator
Denver Urban Gardens
02.2023 - 04.2024
Full-Time Volunteer
Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary
08.2022 - 10.2022
Masters in Natural Resource Stewardship - Ecological Restoration
Colorado State University
Bachelor of Arts - Environmental Law And Policy
University of Michigan
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