As a UNM R.H. Mallory Center for Community Geography Fellow, Katie is contributing to the advancement of community-engaged environmental mapping through her work with the New Mexico Backyard Refuge (NM BYR) Program. In collaboration with Laurel Ladwig, Katie is leading the development of a digital mapping component designed to strengthen public access to ecological data and program outcomes. 

Building upon a buffer map developed in a previous semester, Katie is refining and formatting the dataset for integration into an interactive web mapping application. This platform will display iNaturalist observations alongside additional spatial data layers generated through the NM BYR Program. By combining community-sourced biodiversity data with structured program information, the project enhances the visibility of urban habitat restoration efforts and promotes broader public understanding of local ecological impact.

The resulting interactive web map will be publicly accessible, allowing community members, educators, and program participants to explore the reach and influence of the NM BYR initiative. Through this fellowship, Katie has been able to apply her Geographic Information Systems (GIS) expertise in direct service to the community, translating technical skills into meaningful civic engagement and environmental stewardship. 

“Being a U.N.M. R.H. Mallory Center for Community Geography Fellow has allowed me to use my GIS skills to benefit the community, which is valuable and fulfilling.” - Katie Slack