Matthew Shepherd
Senior Conservation Associate
mdshepherd@xerces.org

In the two decades since gaining a master of science in environmental management from Silsoe College in England, Matthew has pursued a career in conservation that began in that country and took him to Kenya before his arrival in the United States. In England, Matthew established a successful community-based conservation program in Essex, and he played a key role in the creation of Samphire Hoe, a national-award-winning nature park. In Kenya, he worked with local communities, businesses, and government agencies to improve the management of Arabuko-Sokoke Forest.

During this time Matthew not only gained a broad knowledge of habitat management in rural and urban areas but also a deep understanding of the importance and diversity of invertebrates. He has experience in habitat management and restoration, outreach and education, and advocacy.

Matthew has been with the Xerces Society since 1999, during which time he has collaborated with people from all walks of life to promote awareness about and protection of pollinator insects, especially native bees. He has also edited Wings, the Society’s magazine. Matthew is author or coauthor of numerous magazine articles and of several publications, including the Pollinator Conservation Handbook, Farming for Bees, Making Room for Native Pollinators (a guide to pollinator conservation on golf courses), and Pollinator-Friendly Parks.

Time spent with his family provides a solid balance to work. Sure, he watches bees and other wildlife with his kids, but they also run around at the playground, tend the garden, play music and dance, go hiking and camping, volunteer with community groups, and lie around finding pictures in the clouds.

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