CANOPY BLOG

Meet Aubrey Knier, Canopy’s new Tree Care Coordinator

By Canopy Team on December 9, 2022

Aubrey Knier (she/her) joined the Canopy team in late November 2022 as Tree Care Coordinator. We asked Aubrey a few questions to get to know her better.

What were you up to before joining Canopy?

Aubrey: Before making the move to the Bay Area a few months ago, I lived in North Carolina, where I was born and raised. I got my bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and did my honors thesis in paleobotany. Afterwards, I earned my master’s in environmental management from Duke University, where I concentrated on ecosystem science and conservation and completed my thesis on forest responses to elevated CO2. I’ve also worked on human-wildlife conflicts with Defenders of Wildlife and had the honor of conducting field research in the tropical plant ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands and Gabon.

What is your role with Canopy?

As Tree Care Coordinator, I will support Canopy’s fieldwork through tree planting, tracking, and reporting, as well as performing regular tree care activities throughout all of Canopy’s communities.

Why do you think trees are so important?

Aubrey: Trees are fascinating beings that hold immeasurable power. Together, they tell stories of their evolution, construct our atmosphere, and shape ecosystems. They protect us, provide for us, nourish us, teach us, inspire us, and comfort us. Today, trees are instrumental in our journey toward a more equitable and sustainable future. Just as we need trees, trees need us – now, more than ever. Conserving and caring for trees is a form of reciprocity with them.

What are you excited to be working on?

Aubrey: Urban forestry is uniquely situated at the intersection of trees and environmental justice. I’m excited about the opportunity to use trees as a way to address the social and economic gaps in Midpeninsula communities while supporting healthy ecosystems, clean air, and carbon sequestration. I look forward to connecting underserved communities with trees, fostering meaningful relationships with coworkers and residents, and watching our urban canopy cover grow and thrive. And as always, I am grateful I get to work outside and spend quality time with trees!

What is your favorite tree?

Aubrey: The living fossil, Ginkgo biloba!

Favorite Quote?

Aubrey: “My heart is moved by all I cannot save: so much has been destroyed I have to cast my lot with those who age after age, perversely, with no extraordinary power, reconstitute the world.” – Adrienne Rich

What are your favorite hobbies?

Aubrey: Knitting/crocheting, painting, hiking, botanizing, hanging out with my cats

Any final thoughts?

Aubrey: I feel extremely honored and exhilarated to be joining the Canopy team at such a pivotal time in the environmental movement. In the short time I’ve been here, I already feel so at home and welcomed by Canopy staff, volunteers, and communities. I can’t wait to see all that we can accomplish together.

Thanks, Aubrey! We’re so glad to have you on the Canopy team.