Welcoming Dr. Allyn Golub Conservation Assistants

We are excited to welcome two new Conservation Assistants, funded by Dr. Allyn Golub. Their main focus is assisting with field and office activities associated with the Sanctuary’s Western Everglades Research Center and its science-based land stewardship program. 

Here through February, these staff members will assist with plant, aquatic fauna (small fish and crayfish), amphibian, reptile, mammal, and wading bird monitoring, including Wood Stork nest surveys. Research duties will also include processing aquatic fauna samples back in the lab, recording observations from camera trap images, and entering and managing data. They will soon be trained to serve as members of the Sanctuary’s Prescribed Fire Team, with fire season beginning in December.

Michaela Argana

A Florida native, Michaela has always been interested in learning about the Earth and all the flora and fauna that reside here alongside us. She received her B.S. in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation from the University of Florida in December 2025. She gained prior experience working with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. She is most passionate about herpetofauna, particularly amphibian ecology and conservation, but she also loves birds, insects, fish, and plants! She enjoys hiking and stomping around wetlands in her free time, as well as yoga flows and reading. She is beyond excited to join the team for the season and experience the beauty of Corkscrew Swamp.

Caroline Baxter 

This Midwesterner grew up visiting Florida in the winter to escape the snow, and fell in love with the amazing ecosystems here. She is inspired by the incredible diversity of landscapes, plant species, aquatic fauna, and especially the shorebirds. Born and raised in Michigan, Caroline worked as a Fisheries Technician for the U.S. Geological Survey on the Detroit River. She has also worked as a Field Technician for Isle Royale National Park conducting vegetation surveys, and as a Field Biologist for the Loon Preservation Committee surveying and banding Common Loons in New Hampshire. She recently graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Biology from Northern Michigan University and plans to attend graduate school in the future. Outside of work, Caroline spends most of her days kayaking or swimming in the nearest body of water. She also enjoys creating art and hosting craft nights with friends.