Our team is at the heart of everything we do at the Woonasquatucket River Watershed Council, and we’re excited to share their stories with you! In our “Meet the Team” series, we’ll highlight the passionate individuals who make our work possible—sharing their roles, inspirations, and favorite moments along the river. From personal reflections to environmental insights, this series is a way for you to connect with the people behind the WRWC and learn what drives them to protect and celebrate the Woonasquatucket River and its watershed.
Meet the Team: Layla (they/them)
Recreation Coordinator + River Ranger
We’re excited to spotlight the awesome people who make WRWC what it is! Today, meet Layla — a fresh face on the team who’s already bringing big energy and perspective to our Recreation Program.
Hi, what’s your name and pronouns?
Layla they/them
What’s your role here at WRWC?
Rec Coordinator + River Ranger
How long have you been part of the WRWC team?
2 months?
Is there something about the Woonasquatucket River or the work WRWC does that you wish more people understood? What would you like to shout from the rooftops about our mission?
Public spaces don’t maintain themselves, or appear out of nowhere. They take a lot of work to plan, build, maintain and repair. The value that they add to our cities and personal well being is hard to grasp until they are gone.
What’s an environmental issue close to your heart that you’d love to see the community tackle? Why is this one especially important to you?
Indigenous stewardship, and renaming plants/animals/areas. It’s deeply important to me to acknowledge that there have always been people here, and that the idea of untouched/unimpacted wild spaces is not accurate. People have been living in and with the natural world for as long as there have been people. Having a goal of “pristine” nature is unattainable, and keeps us fighting our environments instead of to work with them. A lot of plants/animals/places are named after some very violent, bad people and I would like that to change!
Do you have a favorite spot along the river or in the watershed? What makes it special to you?
I’m still getting to know the watershed so I don’t have one just yet!
If you could share one small action with people that would help make a difference for the environment, what would it be?
Pick up one to two pieces of trash. I’m sure I drop things unintentionally so picking up a few things that are not super gross like an empty water bottle helps maintain our outdoor spaces and helps me feel connected and like a good house guest to the places I visit.
If you could instantly master any skill or hobby, what would it be?
Backing up trailers, plumbing, and carpentry. I love building things!!
Do you have a favorite plant or tree, or maybe a “green thumb” tip you swear by?
Bottom watering succulents!! Wait until they are dried out and wrinkly then soak them in a bowl. Works best with terracotta pots.
Is there an animal (wild or pet) that you feel a special connection to, or one that always makes you smile?
I have an affinity with raccoons, because they have love getting dirty and then washing their little hands. I also love that unlike most animals, they are unafraid of new things, and problem solve by simply bashing things until they break or they get bored.
Anything else that you would like to share with the world?
I’m so glad to be here!! It’s been eight long years since I’ve been in environmental work and I’ve missed it so much!! I also really love birds and want to talk about them all the time!! It’s ok if you don’t like hiking! There are other ways of being outside and finding nature connection that don’t involve expensive gear!