Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic

Ryan Neace

Laguna Hills,CA

Summary

Passionate conservationist with a proven track record at Laguna Canyon Foundation, enhancing ecosystem health and promoting environmental stewardship. Skilled in plant identification, weed-control and fostering teamwork, I've successfully implemented projects that significantly benefited wildlife and community engagement. My attention to detail, background knowledge and critical thinking skills allow me to recognize minute variables in the field and to adjust accordingly. I'm comfortable with diligent communication towards coworkers & contractors, both in-person and virtual, to effectively manage and protect sensitive species.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Conservation Specialist

Laguna Canyon Foundation
10.2023 - Current
  • Developed comprehensive reports detailing survey outcomes and recommendations.
  • Implemented habitat improvement projects that benefited multiple wildlife species while maintaining biodiversity within ecosystems.
  • Conducted comprehensive field assessments to monitor ecosystem health and inform management decisions.
  • Streamlined data collection processes by utilizing GIS technology and Calflora for accurate mapping of rare and invasive plant populations.
  • Coordination with third-party contractors to meet project goals and protocols.
  • Safely operated a variety of hand tools and power equipment, including chainsaws, to manage vegetation.
  • 120+ hours of experience surveying for nesting birds and creating no-work buffer zones within project areas.
  • Communicated with landowners and neighbors to improve understanding of the Fuel Mod Program and the organization's mission.
  • Experience creating educational documents and leading continued-learning sessions.

Field Technichian I-II

Laguna Canyon Foundation
10.2021 - 10.2023
  • Communicated with supervisor to report progress, discuss issues and seek guidance.
  • Supported team members in addressing challenging technical issues, sharing expertise and knowledge when needed.
  • Improved performance by conducting regular maintenance and troubleshooting of equipment in the field.
  • Trained and guided new technicians to equip with skills and knowledge needed to efficiently perform work.
  • Worked with diverse types of weather and ground conditions.
  • Minimized potential hazards through adherence to safety guidelines during all field assignments.
  • Restored native habitat through a combination of planting, seeding, and weed management.
  • Installed, monitored and maintained irrigation systems.
  • Supervised & led coworkers and contracted crews.
  • Identified and managed non-native plant populations through a combination of herbicide application, hand-weeding, mowing and mulching.
  • Facilitated and led volunteer programs, strengthening community relations.

Greenskeeper I

Monarch Dunes Golf Club
07.2020 - 06.2021
  • Contributed positively to overall golfer experience with consistently well-maintained cups/flagsticks, bunkers, ropelines and tee boxes.
  • Trained new employees on proper equipment use, safety protocols, and best practices in golf course maintenance.
  • Ensured consistent playing surfaces with regular mowing, topdressing, and verticutting procedures.
  • Removed debris and waste from outdoor areas and restrooms.
  • Inspected greens and fairways for pests, weeds and diseases.
  • Managed weeds and other vegetation using hand & power tools along uneven terrain and lake edges.
  • Effectively scouted and trapped gopher infestations.
  • Daily vehicle and equipment maintenance.
  • Operation of irrigation systems and spot-watering.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Agriculture Science

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, CA
06-2020

Skills

  • First aid certified
  • Ecosystem monitoring
  • GPS/GIS navigation & mapping
  • Nesting bird surveying
  • Invasive species control
  • Plant identification
  • Herbicide application
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Attention to detail
  • Knowledge of local laws and regulations

Affiliations

  • California Native Plant Society Member
  • California Invasive Plant Council Member

Certification

  • Pest Control Advisor License Applicant - California Department of Pesticide Regulation: Expected to pass exams early 2025
  • Reducing Wildfire Risk to Property Online Training - National Fire Protection Association
  • CPR/AED First Aid Certification

Languages

Spanish
Limited Working

Timeline

Conservation Specialist

Laguna Canyon Foundation
10.2023 - Current

Field Technichian I-II

Laguna Canyon Foundation
10.2021 - 10.2023

Greenskeeper I

Monarch Dunes Golf Club
07.2020 - 06.2021
  • Pest Control Advisor License Applicant - California Department of Pesticide Regulation: Expected to pass exams early 2025
  • Reducing Wildfire Risk to Property Online Training - National Fire Protection Association
  • CPR/AED First Aid Certification

Bachelor of Science - Agriculture Science

California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
Ryan Neace