Welcome, Jade (and Trout!)

We're pleased to announce that Jade Sevelow-Lee has joined the MCFA team as Special Project Director, focused on our work with the Wildcat property in St. George. Read on for an introduction from Jade herself.

I’ve spent the better part of the last two decades moving between coastal communities, and each place has left me a little more curious about the people who live and work there. Along the way, I’ve had the chance to see just how different coastal communities can be—and how much they have in common.

That curiosity eventually brought me to a career in marine science. I recently earned a master’s degree from William & Mary's Batten School of Coastal & Marine Science, VIMS (Virginia Institute of Marine Science), where I focused on how sustainable aquaculture can provide habitat and other ecosystem benefits while supporting coastal communities. 

One of the things I enjoyed most about graduate school was that no two days looked quite the same. Some days were spent buried in research, some talking with farmers, and some trying to make sense of data that did not quite cooperate. I liked the mix of science and real-world problem solving, and especially enjoyed the parts of the work that got me out of the lab and into the field.  

And that brings me to Maine—and to MCFA.

After 11 years of moving around with the Coast Guard, my family and I are finally putting down some roots in Maine. Shortly after moving here, I found myself talking with Jill and Ben about a somewhat unusual opportunity at MCFA. I was immediately intrigued by the Wildcat Lobster Pound.

For one thing, I love the idea of getting to work on a project that doesn’t have everything figured out yet. Wildcat is still taking shape, and a big part of my job will be figuring out what it could become. That means a lot of listening, a lot of questions, and probably a healthy amount of changing our minds along the way.

Jade with puppy Trout

I’m particularly excited about the community aspect of that process. Rather than starting with a finished plan and asking people what they think about it, we’re starting with a place, a lot of possibilities, and a community full of people who are passionate about Maine’s fishing heritage and future.

Outside of work, I’m enjoying the process of figuring out our new home. My family and I spend a lot of time outside with our newest addition, Trout, and I’m happiest when there’s water, a trail, or some combination of the two involved. After so many years of moving around, there’s something particularly nice about getting to know one place a little more deeply.

I’m really excited to be here. I’m excited to learn, to meet people, and to see where Wildcat goes. Mostly, I’m looking forward to getting out of the office and onto the coast—and finding out how to best connect our community of fishermen with the opportunity we've been given with Wildcat.