“It’s never too late to pursue your passions.”

It’s sage advice from Jordan Carroll, Sheridan Community Land Trust’s Conservation Intern.

“Ten years ago, I was on a career pathway that I believed was my long-term journey,” he relayed.

However, about five years ago, Jordan found himself turning over his next journey, quite literally. “I found my current passion for nature in 2019 when I started composting in my backyard,” he explained. “Over the years, I’ve found many opportunities that allowed me to chase my interests in nature.”

That includes volunteering with Colorado State University Extension, measuring and reporting precipitation data used by researchers around the globe as part of the citizen science program CoCoRaHS, and greening his thumbs with a “modest collection” of houseplants.

Jordan joined SCLT earlier this month after seeing a previous posting for an intern. A quick review of the SCLT website confirmed that SCLT’s work aligned with Jordan’s passion for conserving open spaces and the beauty of our local landscapes.

“I was impressed with the work SCLT has been doing with conservation easements and SCLT promotes the work that I would like to do after school,” he opined.

Jordan is a non-traditional Sheridan College student pursuing a dual major in Plant Sciences and Rangeland Management. In addition to his studies, and SCLT internship, Jordan also works as a research intern for the University of Wyoming Sheridan Research & Extension Center and spends time helping his parents.

Jordan will serve with SCLT through Sheridan College’s spring semester. Once done, Jordan intends to pursue a bachelor’s degree in conservation with a public outreach component. “Being a good steward of our beautiful outdoor environment includes inspiring our communities through actionable education,” he offered, concluding, “At 34 years old, it can feel awkward starting over with schooling, but it’s been totally worth it.”

SCLT Director of Conservation John Graves said Jordan’s educational plans and passion combined to make him an ideal addition to the SCLT team. “Jordan will be a great asset as SCLT works with local families to conserve their ranches and open space, and his knowledge and skills will be quite helpful as we begin managing the SCLT Big Goose Natural Area as a public space shared with an active cattle ranching operation,” Graves closed.