Zach Hutchinson & Jacelyn Downey

Zach Hutchinson is a community naturalist and master bander. Prior to Audubon he graduated with a B.S. in zoology from NMSU; operated programs combining science, art, and kayaks; served as an alligator conservation biologist; and was a museum operations director. Zach authored The Great Wyoming Bird Trail, an app guiding bird enthusiasts to finding birds in Wyoming. His passion with Audubon is focused on engaging students and adults with experiential learning through his various bird banding projects. Zach’s passion for conservation was started from birth and his personal life greatly reflects his work life. However, he has a passion for international travel!

Jacelyn Downey—our education programs manager—began her career as a marine science educator and aquarist but began working for Audubon Rockies as a community naturalist in 2006 when she moved to northeast Wyoming with her husband to live and work on the family ranch. Once in Wyoming, Jacelyn focused on sagebrush conservation and getting youth and families to explore the natural wonders of the Rocky Mountain west. In 2015 she won Audubon's highest education award, the Tamar Chotzen Award. Jacelyn serves as a board member for Wyoming's Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust Fund, the Barnyards & Backyards team, and Wyoming Project Learning Tree. Jacelyn enjoys any excuse to be outside with her husband and two daughters, traveling, and cooking for family and friends.