Kayla Herriman, Biological Scientist, National Seed Specialist

A seed scientist studies the structure and development of seeds until the germination of a new plant.

Biology is one of the best foundations for working with seed. I recommend nursery experience and landscape scale restoration projects. It is important to know what it takes to collect and use native plant seed because that will help you understand how valuable it is on the landscape.

Can small amounts of native seed actually create/improve pollinator habitat? Can you separate one type of seed from another?

The most important tool for seed work is a microscope. It helps you to understand the physical characteristics of a seed. Those characteristics can determine best practices for seed extraction and processing. It is amazing how a microscope can enhance our view.

The most exciting project to be a part of is the Moon Trees project. I volunteered at an observatory when I was younger, so getting to mix seed and space was a highlight. Exciting events are seed extractory tours. When visitors take a tour, they learn about how important native seed is for restoration.

When I was in high school, I knew I wanted to go into science. When I got my first job planting trees in college, I became more interested in where trees came from. I realized seed was the most magical aspect of reforestation. So much can come from such a tiny seed.