Meet Ashley Morris: From Wildlife Biologist to Outdoor Educator
Ashley Morris grew up in Asheville where her love for the outdoors took root during family camping trips, hikes, and horseback rides through the mountains. Her passion for working with kids began in high school when she spent two summers teaching horseback riding lessons at a local summer camp. She later pursued a BS in Environmental Studies and Ecology at UNC Asheville, further deepening her connection to nature. A summer job at the WNC Nature Center sparked her interest in working with wildlife, leading her to a diverse career blending education and conservation.
After college, Ashley moved to Colorado, where she spent winters working in daycare and summers as a wildlife technician for the U.S. Forest Service, conducting wildlife surveys and monitoring stream health. Seeking a warmer climate, she headed to Northern California. There, she spent 12 years as a wildlife biologist. She specialized in northern spotted owl research, diurnal raptor, and mesocarnivore surveys, and managing a team of wildlife technicians. Beyond fieldwork, she also led student tours, gave educational presentations in elementary schools, and worked for a local university’s Biology Department, overseeing amphibian and reptile care while teaching Ecology labs.
Eventually, Ashley returned to North Carolina to be closer to family and the Appalachians, eager to merge her love of wildlife and education. After working with the NC Wildlife Federation’s Great Outdoors University, she joined Muddy Sneakers in the fall of 2024. She is excited to inspire students through hands-on learning in nature, hoping to ignite their curiosity and appreciation for the natural world.
In her free time, Ashley Morris enjoys hiking with her dogs, mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping—always finding new ways to connect with the wild places she loves.
Muddy Sneakers is grateful to have Ashley on the team!
