As we continue strengthening LIISMA’s conservation and early detection efforts across Long Island, we’re excited to welcome Matt Stanton, our newest team member supporting EDRR, field conservation, and education and outreach initiatives.
In this Q&A, he shares what motivates him in the field and what he’s most looking forward to as he steps into this multifaceted role.
What interests you about conservation work and invasive species?
I’m most drawn to conservation work because of my passion for biodiversity. I’ve always been fascinated by it and the ways in which it makes our planet more resilient. Sadly, I’ve also seen firsthand how invasive species can reduce biodiversity. It makes me sad, but it’s what motivates me to work in conservation. When I see new invasive species, I am equally fascinated by their ecologies and interested in their impacts.
What excites you most about joining the LIISMA team?
I’m most excited to work with the LIISMA team in the field, removing and surveying for invasive species. Since I spend a lot of time outdoors, I’m looking forward to working in places where I spend a lot of my time and where I’ve noticed environmental issues. I’ve seen everything from small patches of non-native flowers to entire forests swallowed up by English ivy. I’m excited to see how LIISMA manages different species in different contexts.
Tell us about a favorite project you’ve worked on in the past.
I’ve really enjoyed volunteering with the Long Island Native Plant Initiative. It’s been great to gain horticultural skills and learn about native plants there. I especially enjoy working at the founder plot and seeing how much seed is produced. Harvesting seeds there makes me hopeful about the impact of our work, knowing how many plants can be grown from them. Since volunteering there, I’ve been inspired to apply new skills at home and grow new native plants in my garden.
Do you have a favorite native plant or natural place on Long Island?
Eastern skunk cabbage is one of my favorite plants. Not only is it unique and strange, but wherever it’s found, it’s usually surrounded by other fun species. I’ve come to love swamps and other wetlands since studying skunk cabbage and always get excited when I discover new ones. Wetlands are truly whimsical, and ecologically important, places that have so much to offer.
What do you hope to accomplish or learn this summer?
This summer, I’m excited to gain new skills that I can apply in future conservation work. Although I have research experience, I have a lot to learn about land management and the different tools involved in it. I’m also excited to learn about new ecosystems and conservation areas that I haven’t explored before. Even though I’m from Long Island, I have so much more to learn and can’t wait to see what else is out there. For example, I haven’t explored a coastal plain pond ecosystem before.