We’re thrilled to announce some exciting changes at Plymouth Sound National Marine Park (PSNMP)! As we continue our mission to protect and promote the incredible marine environment, over the summer we’ve welcomed a new team of dedicated Coastal Rangers. These passionate individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, and they’re eager to connect with our community.
Join us as we introduce the first of many new Rangers, Jess Stevens who will be instrumental in engaging visitors, leading educational programs, and advocating for the preservation of our beautiful coastal ecosystems.
Tell us about yourself!
My background is slightly unorthodox and a bit of a winding road, but fundamentally I have always been driven by a passion for animal and environmental ethics. With a BA in English Literature, an FdSc in Animal Management and Conservation and an MA in Anthrozoology (study of human- animal/ environment relations), my interest in the environment is grounded in sociology, philosophy, and anthropology: examining our relationships and our place in this wonderful world in relation to all the living organisms that we share it with.
I spent the last 6 years of my career working in primate conservation through a variety of roles; rescuing primates from the UK pet trade and rehabilitating them in a sanctuary, educating people about habitat conservation and running a volunteer programme at a world leading orangutan rescue, rehab and release centre in Borneo. I have been lucky enough to live and work all over the world in different communities and after moving back home to a small village in Cornwall, I came to realise the importance of connecting people with our own rich and diverse wildlife and ecosystems and began working and volunteering in different community projects.
What attracted you to apply for the Coastal Ranger position at PSNMP?
The mission of the PSNMP embodies my passionate belief that by re-connecting people back to the place they live; with its history, its biodiversity, its stunning landscape, can we value and treasure it, eventually becoming caretakers of that special place we call home. I have been privileged enough in my life to witness some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes and wildlife and I applied to be a Coastal Ranger so that I can help people access and recognise our own wonders in our everyday lives. We don’t need to travel the world to experience its riches; they are right here on our doorstep!
What do you love about the job so far?
I love being exposed to the absolute wealth of people and organisations that are passionate about protecting and promoting our natural and cultural heritage, but more than that, having those micro moments with people when you catch the look of wonder in their eyes as they explore the rocky shores for the first time!
What are you most excited about working in PSNMP?
I’m super excited for all the ways in which we’re going to be making the underwater world visible to those who don’t want to or can’t get in to see it! Watch this space!
We feel so lucky to have Jess on board. With her extensive background in conservation and community engagement, she’s poised to make a significant impact. We can’t wait for you to meet her in person, during our events and learn more about her vision for Plymouth Sound National Marine Park.
There are a few more Rangers for you to be introduced to. Stay tuned, and get ready to meet the faces behind our project!