Emily Levin is a fish and wildlife biologist at the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office. Read on to learn about her journey to the Service and how one high school class helped her discover her love of nature and conservation.
OB: Hi Emily! Welcome to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service! Can you tell us about what you do?
EL: I am currently a fish and wildlife biologist on the Central Coast Division at the Ventura Field Office. In this role, I focus primarily on conservation projects in Los Osos, a community I am proud to call home. My deep connection to this town enhances my work, as it allows me to build strong, collaborative relationships with local agencies, community members, and other key stakeholders. Living in Los Osos enables me to be directly involved in the projects I manage, making my contributions to conservation efforts both personal and impactful. Being able to blend my love for this region with meaningful conservation work gives me a profound sense of purpose and connection to the community.
OB: It must be so special to be able to work for and with a community that holds such a significant place in your heart. What led you to a career with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
EL: During high school, I faced significant challenges in my classes, often due to a lack of engagement and a stubborn resistance to subjects I didn’t care about. It wasn’t until my junior year that I discovered AP Environmental Science, a course that shifted my perspective and revealed that I do have a natural desire to learn. This newfound interest led me to immerse myself in environmental literature by influential writers such as Edward Abbey, George Monbiot, and Elizabeth Kolbert.
Because my family had little interest in nature or outdoor activities, I was initially detached from the natural world. My high school experience was a turning point; it suddenly awakened my awareness to the environment around me. This pivotal moment not only reshaped my academic focus but also set me on a path towards a career dedicated to preserving the environment.
OB: Wow, that sounds like a wonderful class! I’m so glad you had that “aha” moment and were able to start following your newly discovered passion. Can you tell us what you studied in school?
EL: That moment led me to pursue a degree in Environmental Management and Protection at Cal Poly. Throughout my youth, I often felt like a misfit, but at Cal Poly, I finally found a community of like-minded individuals who shared my dedication to environmental issues. This enabled me to connect deeply with my studies and peers.
OB: That sounds like a transformative experience! I’m sure many core memories were made during your time at school. What kinds of activities do you like to do in your free time?
EL: In my free time, I am never sitting still. Often my friends have a hard time tracking me down because I am always up to something. If you can’t find me, I am probably climbing, surfing, biking, collecting seeds to grow native plants, or on an adventure in the Big Sur coast.
OB: Sounds like there is never a dull moment! Thank you, Emily we’re so glad to have you as part of our team! Is there anything else you’d like to add?
EL: I feel incredibly fortunate to work for the Service, where each day offers an opportunity to advocate for and contribute to meaningful conservation efforts. In this role, I am not only able to protect the species I care deeply about but also to engage in initiatives that make a tangible impact on our environment.
