Natalie Smith is an Environmental Scientist passionate about the intersection of the natural and built environment. Her work focuses on habitat connectivity, ecological resilience, and urban biodiversity. She brings a multidisciplinary background that includes fieldwork, native plant design, spatial analysis, and community engagement. Grounded in both science and storytelling, Natalie is committed to making complex ideas more accessible through clear communication and thoughtful design. She has expertise in creating compelling data visualizations and crafting narratives that build understanding and support informed management decisions. Most recently, she supported a regional planning initiative on California’s Southern Central Coast that identified key wildlife connectivity priorities and helped launch a new partnership for long-term ecological resilience. Natalie received her Master’s degree from the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management at UC Santa Barbara, where she focused on conservation planning and climate adaptation. Outside of work, she’s often found in her garden, at the movies, or listening to old jazz records with a good cup of coffee.

Education: M.E.S.M., Environmental Science and Management; B.A., Music