SCIENCE & FIELDWORK

My research interests are centered at the intersections between science communication, ecology & natural history, and community-engaged conservation. As a field biologist, I have contributed to projects led by the National Audubon Society, National Park Service, Southern Colorado Plateau Network, Center for Ecosystem Science and Society, Central Arizona–Phoenix Long-Term Ecological Research project, Colorado Plateau Research Station, and others. Additionally, I have conducted qualitative research to improve the efficacy of collaborative research teams, managed outreach & marketing for environmental non-profits, taught undergraduate communication courses in Environmental Humanities and English, and led a variety of experiential education programs on land and at sea.

My interdisciplinary background gives me a unique perspective to think critically and creatively about a variety of challenging subjects. I specialize in creative approaches to environmental problem-solving and powerful, nuanced communication. I provide freelance writing, editing, and coaching services, and love to collaborate on projects that cultivate reciprocal relationships between the arts and sciences. Feel free to reach out if

SCHOLARLY & POPULAR PUBLICATIONS

PEER-REVIEWED

Mahoney, S. M., A. N. B Smith; P. J Motyka; E. J Lundgren; M. J Johnson; R. R Winton; B. Stevens. 2019. Russian olive habitat along an arid river supports fewer bird species, functional groups, and a different species composition relative to mixed vegetation habitats. Journal of Arid Environments. Vol 167: 26-33. doi.org/10.1016/j.jaridenv.2019.04.018 (available upon request)

NON-REFEREED / EDITED

Smith, A. N. and B. G. Merkle. 2020. Meaning-Making in Science Communication: A Case for Precision in Word Choice. The Bulletin of the Ecological Society of America. doi.org/10.1002/bes2.1794 (open access)

GENERAL INTEREST

Four garter snakes species call WY home. Barnyards & Backyards, 2020 Fall Issue (download PDF)

RESEARCH MEDIA COVERAGE

Piccone, A. Words Matter For Scientists—Here’s Why. Wyoming Public Radio. March 19, 2021. (Link)

This is the Colorado Plateau with Christopher Calvo: Scientific and Environmental News, Events and Voices from Around the Region. Radio Sunnyside. June 6, 2019.

PROFESSIONAL PRESENTATIONS & POSTERS

Anna Nellis Smith. 2020. Russian olive habitat along an arid river supports fewer bird species, functional groups and a different species composition relative to mixed vegetation habitats. Poster for the North American Ornithological Conference.

Zeke Smith & Nell Smith. 2019. Stratton & Bluff Islands Annual Update. Prouts Neck Audubon Society Meeting, Prouts Neck, ME.

See Literary Work for more writing, multimedia & collaborative projects

See Recognition & Awards for other public readings, interviews, grants & awards