After earning her bachelor’s degree in biology, Keely joined AmeriCorps in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, working with the Vegetation Management division. There, she gained hands-on experience treating eastern hemlocks for hemlock woolly adelgid, an invasive insect that feeds on hemlock trees. That work inspired a move to Michigan, where she continued hemlock conservation efforts and went on to graduate school to research how this invasive pest alters forest ecosystems. Using environmental DNA, she studied the ripple effects of losing a foundational tree species on the plants and animals that depend on it. This experience deepened her understanding of how interconnected the landscape is and why management decisions should consider the whole ecosystem.

As an FFCP forester, Keely values the people-first side of the work. “I can learn so much from the landowners I work with, and it’s fulfilling to be able to help connect them with their land,” she shares. She also reflects on the responsibility that comes with the role: “I feel that the title of forester comes with such a responsibility to do right by the forests, land, and climate, and I’m so proud to have the opportunity to work on the FFCP.” 

Through her work with FFCP, Keely blends scientific expertise and on-the-ground experience to help landowners make thoughtful management decisions that support long-term forest health and resilience.

Interested in learning more about how FFCP foresters support landowners? Stay tuned for more spotlights and visit our website to explore how we’re working together to promote responsible forest management.