Ilissa Sargent

As a Regional Stewardship Manager, Ilissa Sargent regularly collaborates with landowners throughout the southwest region to ensure protected lands are being maintained according to the terms of their conservation easement deed. This involves physical and aerial monitoring, the use of GIS and GPS technologies, and regular communication with property owners and the public.

Ilissa joined the Forest Society in 2025, bringing with her a diverse background in and passion for conservation, field work, and STEM education. She holds a BS in Environmental Science with a concentration in Conservation and Natural Resource Management and a BA in Anthropology with a focus in public outreach. She previously worked as an Easement Intern with the Harris Center for Conservation Education and as a Fine Gardener for Stone Blossom, gaining expertise in conservation monitoring, invasive species control, and eco-friendly horticultural practices. Ilissa’s background also includes 12 years of EMS field work in northern Illinois and extensive volunteer work in rare plant conservation, bird banding, wildlife population monitoring, and naturalist education throughout New Hampshire, as well as professional development in wetland delineation and sustainability.

When not working, Ilissa enjoys contributing to conservation and citizen science projects, woodworking, expanding her knowledge of native flora and wildlife, and exploring the natural world with her children and husband.