Aqua Team Restoration Force

I’ll Go If You Go Podcast

In this third episode, host Emily Harwitz chats with José Juan Rodriguez and Verenice Sanchez about doing aquatic restoration in old growth redwood forests. Growing up in big cities, neither of them thought they’d one day be snorkeling beneath the redwoods or trekking along creeks to collect eDNA samples. But since then, they’ve followed their passions for nature and, after some surprising turns, have found their niches—their homes—in conservation.

ABOUT OUR GUESTS:

Verenice "Nice" Sanchez

Verenice Sanchez is an aspiring restoration ecologist. She graduated from Cal Poly Humboldt with a BS degree in environmental science and management. A 2023 Redwood Rising Watershed Apprentice, she is currently working with the Arcata Fish and Wildlife Office to monitor snowy plovers this nesting season. She enjoys gardening, Danza Mexica-Azteca, and soaking in hot springs. Find her on Instagram: @Parangaricutirimicuaraaa

José Juan Rodriguez
Growing up in a big city far away from the serene beauty of nature, José Juan felt a longing for a deeper connection with the world around him. This led him to pursue a career in Wildlife Biology Management & Conservation at Cal Poly Humboldt. Immersed in the ancient redwood forests, he was captivated by their unique flora and fauna. As he developed his own relationship with nature, he realized how many people back home were missing out on that, which inspired him to focus on helping others rebuild their connection with the natural world. Today, his goal is to ignite curiosity and foster a deeper appreciation for the great outdoors, whether it is through leading interpretive hikes, engaging with classrooms, or documenting his research. Find him on Linkedin.