Nicole Kidd has a bachelor’s degree in animal biology from the University of South Florida (USF) and over 5 years of professional experience in wetland studies, protected species surveys and permitting, and habitat assessments. Nicole is certified as an FWC Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent (GTA), an FDEP Qualified Stormwater Inspector, and an ASTM E1527-21 Phase I Environmental Site Inspector.
Her field skills include ecological monitoring, wetland jurisdictional determinations, wetland mitigation compliance monitoring, presence/absence surveys and monitoring for protected wildlife species, vegetation and hydrologic baseline monitoring in support of habitat restoration projects, GIS mapping using ArcGIS Pro, Phase I environmental site assessments for contamination, and FDEP stormwater inspections. Nicole regularly works with contractors and oversees maintenance on restoration sites, including activities such as canopy reduction and herbicide applications to ensure permit compliance. She also has experience conducting Florida sand skink (Plestiodon reynoldsi) and blue-tailed mole skink (Eumeces egregious lividus) population studies, including marking individuals to exclude recaptured specimens in support of accurate population assessments.
As an FWC authorized GTA, Nicole manages the survey, capture, and relocation of gopher tortoises. She conducts comprehensive site surveys to identify potential gopher tortoise habitat and gopher tortoise burrows, evaluating the activity status of each identified burrow. She coordinates with the FWC to obtain the project specific required permits and/or variance approvals and ensures all activities are in full compliance with state regulations. Nicole is currently leading Quest’s efforts to obtain FWC approvals for recipient site permits on recently restored habitats in Pasco County.
Nicole is a member of the Tampa Bay Association of Environmental Professionals, the Florida Association of Environmental Soil Scientists, the Gopher Tortoise Council, and the Tampa Audubon Society. Outside of work, she enjoys birdwatching, nature walks, kayaking, and live music.