Matthew Tanis
Intern
Matthew Tanis is from Downs, Kansas. He says it would be difficult for him to part with the rolling hills and prairies of this lovely state. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Biology from Fort Hays State University while studying range science and botany. Matthew is projected to graduate in the spring of 2022. His experiences working on local farms and participating in undergraduate research at FHSU have been most relevant to his position at TLI by aiding his understanding of the research done here and by providing him the skills necessary to help in this work.
Q&A
What would people never guess that you do as part of your role at TLI?
As part of my role at TLI I occasionally get the chance to operate machinery.
What drew you to work at TLI?
After hearing about TLI, I became interested in the work here because I feel drawn towards a career in rangeland conservation and management, and the idea of replicating a prairie ecosystem with perennial crops made me want to reach a better understanding of the projects and research here.
What else are you passionate about (outside of work)?
Outside of work I, more than anything, enjoy spending time outdoors hiking rugged trails, camping away from the civilized world, as well as hunting deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
What’s your motto / favorite quote?
“I would rather sit on a pumpkin, and have it all to myself, than be crowded on a velvet cushion.” – Henry David Thoreau
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