Jessica DellaRossa

I have been active in the Montana political scene since September 2016 working for Montana Conservation Voters. Montana politics are unique with our small population across a vast amount of land, yet the Legislative Session that occurs for 90 days every other year demonstrates the power of local politics. With the experience of lobbying at the State Legislature and at the national level to Montana Senators in Washington D.C., I have seen the change policy and politics make. I would like to continue to work with political conservation groups that are helping the environmental oppression of people, preserving natural landscapes or aiding in progress of the adverse effects of climate change. I thrive in a setting where I can connect with people and nature while advancing in collaboration with others to make change occur.

During my last year of undergrad I conducted research on Montana water law and how it affects people's adaptability with changes in temperature, precipitation and water availability. My mentor and I will be publishing our findings in 2017. This experience has encouraged my interest in further research at Graduate School within many topics interests including but not limited to: policy, marine or terrestrial ecosystem adaptability to changing climate, biomimicry of plants to advance renewable energy technology, community agriculture and conservation strategies to help local communities adapt to climate change. Additionally I am interested in law school to pursue a Juris Doctor degree in environmental policy. I value my education and am determined to continue to learn every day.

I enjoy backpacking throughout the many public lands in Montana and the West in general. I love to hike with my dog, family and friends while observing and identifying local flora and fauna. In my spare time I like to stay active outdoors by biking, running, camping, snowboarding and floating. One of my favorite past times is baking and cooking for others to enjoy. On a more professional level I like to engage in environmental activism by speaking at climate rallies, contacting government officials and informing citizens about conservation issues.