National Aquarium | Volunteer Spotlight: Laura Cattell

We are pleased to welcome Laura Cattell to the Aquarium Conservation Team (ACT!). As the second Chesapeake Conservation Corps Volunteer to be placed with the National Aquarium, Laura will help plan and lead community and student volunteer watershed restoration projects. The Chesapeake Conservation Corps is a career apprenticeship program funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust. Young adult volunteers are placed with environmental nonprofits for one-year terms of service. Through regular training and hands-on leadership opportunities, volunteers gain valuable experience and knowledge. Originally from Pennsylvania, Laura traveled to Virginia to study environmental science in college. After graduating in 2009, she worked for two years with the Maryland Park Service’s Conservation Corps. In this capacity, she assisted at ACT! events at Indian Head Naval Support Facility, Nassawango Creek Preserve, Fort McHenry National Monument, Dominion Cove Point LNG, Poplar Island, and Farring-Baybrook Park.

In her first two months, Laura has helped construct a new wetland nursery pond, designed a butterfly garden, monitored recent restoration sites, and assisted at several community wetland restoration events. She says her favorite projects are the hands-on outdoor activities, but it's also been interesting to learn about the behind-the-scenes components of large conservation events. Laura is pleased to join the Aquarium’s conservation efforts and eager to learn more about watershed restoration efforts in the Chesapeake Bay!