The Hands Behind a Conservation Season
If you’ve picked up native plants, rain barrels, or compost bins from WCCD this spring or summer, chances are Walker Whitehouse helped get them into your hands. As the Conservation District’s seasonal staff member, Walker plays a vital (and often behind-the-scenes) role in executing large-scale conservation resource programs across Washtenaw County.
From unloading pallets of planting aides to designing outreach materials, Walker brings precision, creativity, and a can-do attitude to the seasonal rush. His work is an essential piece of the team’s ability to meet community demand—and make conservation more accessible for all.
Walker Whitehouse, on left, with Doug Reith at the 2025 Native Plant Expo.
What’s it like to be part of WCCD’s seasonal operations?
As a recent college graduate, Walker knows that finding the right fit in a seasonal role can be challenging. At WCCD, he has found a supportive and flexible team that values his contributions and makes him feel like a true part of the organization. Though his role is temporary, he supports a wide variety of tasks, events, and initiatives, gaining diverse professional experience and building connections with a strong network of conservation-minded individuals across Washtenaw County and the surrounding area.
"Plant sale event days have been a major highlight for me. Events like the Native Plant Expo are special because everyone wants to be there. Our events create gathering spaces for passionate, plant-loving people, whether it’s customers or volunteers. Seeing weeks of planning directly translate into something so positive is not an opportunity at every workplace."
Seasonal, but Central
Walker joined the WCCD team in the spring as operations ramped up. His role includes everything from building and maintaining hand tools to working customer service lines at busy distribution events like the Native Plant Expo & Marketplace. He’s part warehouse, part field crew, part graphic designer, part DJ—and fully committed.
His flexibility and reliability have made him an anchor during high-demand periods this year. As WCCD’s offerings expand each year, so has the need for capable seasonal staff to keep things running smoothly.
Walker snatching up a loose lamb at a local farm.
A Broader Path in Conservation
While Walker’s title may be seasonal, his interest in conservation is year-round. Walker graduated from the University of Michigan with an environmental degree in May 2025. Prior to his position at WCCD, Walker worked for the parks departments of both Scio and Ypsilanti Township. As a former member of Epsilon Eta, a professional environmental fraternity at U of M, Walker has been involved as a volunteer and steward across the county. He’s explored native plants, local agriculture, and outdoor work through his time with WCCD—and sees the experience as part of a broader journey in the conservation field.
Walker pictured with fellow graduates from his environmental fraternity, Epsilon Eta.
A Career in Conservation: Reflections and Future Plans
Walker, who graduated in May, views this role as the beginning of his environmental career. With prior experience largely in the field, he’s discovered how many different ways meaningful conservation work can be carried out. While navigating an early career path in a changing world, Walker remains committed to advocating for the environment in whatever form that may take. He welcomes opportunities that allow him to be creative and hands-on, whether that leads him to work in renewable energy, environmental education, or other avenues of conservation.
“I will always be an advocate for the environment, but that could—and likely will—take various forms. Who knows, next year I could be installing solar panels across the US or facilitating environmental education through the Peace Corps.”
Quick Picks: Walker’s Conservation Snapshot
- Favorite part of the job: Working with fellow tree-huggers, both in the office and the community!
- Biggest surprise about the role: Providing these resources to the community requires a lot of preparation and administrative organization. Native plant distribution requires far more computer skills than you would expect.
- Off-season hobby: Pursuing travel adventures, scenic nature spots, live music events, and interesting eats!
- Advice to future seasonal staff: WCCD staff are a sincere and flexible group of professionals. Don't be afraid to ask questions and learn what you can from coworkers you don't see everyday.
Local conservation districts play a critical role in protecting our land, water, and farms. Your support can help us continue this essential work during uncertain times. Please consider making a donation to keep conservation on the ground in our community.
