Rights-of-Way as Habitat Working Group

habitat conservation + working landscapes

Vibrant wildflowers and tall grasses in a natural landscape, showcasing yellow dandelions and pink blooms against a clear blue sky. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and gardening inspiration.

Meet the Team

The team of UIC professionals leading the Rights-of-Way as Habitat Working Group are passionate about promoting pollinator habitats and healthy ecosystems along rights-of-way and other energy and transportation lands. Learn more about us below.

Dan Salas Headshot

Dan Salas

Dan leads the Working Group and the University’s Sustainable Landscapes program, which explores integrating biodiversity and infrastructure.

Headshot of Iris

Iris Caldwell

Iris began the Working Group in 2015 and now serves in a strategic advisory capacity.

Smiling woman in a white long-sleeve shirt standing in a lush green park, surrounded by trees and natural foliage. Bright sunlight filters through the leaves, creating a vibrant outdoor atmosphere.

Caroline Hernandez

Caroline keeps the Working Group running smoothly and manages several research and outreach projects to improve habitat on working lands.

Smiling woman with blonde hair wearing a blue UIC polo shirt and a gray cardigan, standing in front of a lush green hedge.

Megan Petraitis

Megan oversees the conservation agreement programs and supports other Working Group and Sustainable Landscape activities.

Man with a beard wearing a light cap and gray shirt, sitting in front of a rocky cave background, smiling at the camera.

Mark Johnston

Mark leads geospatial mapping and related research projects for the Working Group.

Young woman wearing a life jacket, standing by a river with urban buildings in the background, capturing a selfie. The water reflects the city skyline, showcasing a vibrant outdoor setting.

Anne Jansen

Anne provides technical support for Working Group research and other Sustainable Landscapes programs.

Young woman smiling in a floral garden, wearing a colorful sundress, with blooming roses and greenery in the background, showcasing a sunny outdoor setting.

Alison Little

Alison supports the conservation agreement programs, partner outreach, and other Working Group research activities.

Student sitting in front of UIC Parking Lot 20, located at 1101 W. Taylor Street, with a sign indicating card access only. Nearby is a sign for the Monarch Memorial Garden, highlighting UIC's commitment to sustainability.

Catherine O’Reilly

Catherine supports the conservation agreement programs and coordinates partner outreach and engagement.

Young woman standing by a stream in a forest, wearing a cozy brown and cream pullover sweater with bear patterns, surrounded by lush greenery and natural elements.

Daytonna Anderson

Daytonna performs data management for the conservation agreement programs and supports the Geospatial Habitat Database.

Smiling young woman with long, wavy hair, wearing a floral dress, standing amidst greenery and wildflowers in a forest setting.

Kamari Crews

Kamari supports the conservation agreement programs and Working Group outreach and communications.