Jessie Quinn, PhD

My background is in wildlife ecology research and conservation (birds and mammals), and while the focused research is fun, I appreciate that my environmental consulting career allows me to work on projects focused on all components of natural communities. From my work (and tons of time spent outdoors!), I also developed an interest in how to manage and protect natural communities amid the human communities that live alongside them. I’ve since worked on these environmental compliance issues with public agencies, utility and renewable energy companies, and other industries in the biological resource components of CEQA and NEPA. In my current role at Ascent, I can focus what I’ve learned on conservation and recreation projects, in alignment with my long-time love of exploring wilderness, parks, and open spaces. I also get to engage with people with a wide range of perspectives to identify and work toward mutually beneficial goals.

My happy place is when I’m birdwatching, hiking, backpacking, camping, or snow or paddle boarding, especially when my husband and daughter are with me. I also enjoy the benefits of living in a walkable, bikeable city—going to see movies, live music, and the Sacramento Kings.