TALIA MCWILLIAMS

Studying how different pond management strategies affect fledging success of endangered Hawaiian waterbirds

• Collect and track field data on native waterbird chicks across multiple reserves on O‘ahu
• Assist with native seed collection, processing, and storage for restoration work, along with nursery plant care and propagation

• Worked on coastal restoration projects using native Hawaiian plants in dune ecosystems across O‘ahu
• Monitored plant survival and growth after outplanting
• Helped assess differences in species performance across multiple restoration sites

● 20 Botany Credits from UH Mānoa

● Including classes:

• ○ Fundamentals of Soil Science TPSS 304 — Learned about the creation and use of different soil types. Conducted greenhouse experiments and visited with farmers and different soil sites
• ○ Rescue Management & Conservation Biology BOT 350 — Attention to management of native Hawaiian organisms and terrestrial ecosystems. As well as studying strategies, research, and management actions necessary to control alien influences and promote native species.
• ○ Conservation Ethics BOT 300 — Discussion of ethical issues in biodiversity, ecology, and conservation biology
• ○ Plant-Animal Interactions BOT 456 — Learned about the influence of animals on plant fitness/evolution and pollination, fruit/seed dispersal, and herbivory.
• ○ Global Environmental History HIST 157 — Studying the way people influence the natural world around them.
• ○ Algal Diversity and Evolution BOT 480 — Study of Limu morphological plasticity and practice in identification and preservation

• Assisted with care of sea turtles including wound treatment, laser therapy, and daily husbandry
• Helped with rescues and releases
• Conducted monk seal observations and supported seabird response efforts
• Assisted with hotline response and public education

• Led snorkel tours with a focus on safety, marine life, and conservation
• Worked as primary crew member responsible for operations and guest safety

• Operated a floating, pump-driven Seabin system to collect surface debris and microplastics, supporting data collection and coastal pollution research

• Responded to ocean emergencies including rip current rescues
• Worked closely with a team in high-pressure situations