Merra’s curiosity of the natural world began with childhood bird walks, tide pooling along the Maine coast, and scrambles up peaks in the White Mountains – experiences that led her to pursue a career in wildlife conservation. She now works as a scientist at the Biodiversity Research Institute studying interactions between wildlife and offshore wind projects. Merra believes strongly that all children should have equal access to the same outdoor experiences that she had and is excited to join the board of White Pine Programs. In her free time, she mentors students to help them navigate careers in conservation and loves to fly fish, hike and grow vegetables in her garden.