- May 2025
Extension Associate I
Coastal Marine Extension Program
Time in Position and Service to MSU – 3 years
Nina Davis has always been drawn to the water, a fascination that started during her childhood near Lake Michigan. But while she loves being close to it, she admits the deep sea still intimidates her. This realization is what helped Davis settle on a career in coastal studies, allowing her to support communities and ecosystems while staying close to the water.
As an Extension Associate I with the Mississippi State University Coastal Marine Extension Program, Davis simplifies complex concepts to make them easier to understand and apply.
“My passion for making information clear is to help people understand the science behind changes in their communities and take action,” Davis said.
Davis bridges the gap between scientific research and practical solutions, ensuring stakeholders—ranging from residents to policymakers—can use the information to make informed decisions.
For instance, she plays a key role in addressing one of the region’s emerging environmental challenges—saltwater intrusion. Davis leads the Saltwater Intrusion Working Group, serving as the sole representative for Mississippi. The group brings together members from diverse backgrounds and expertise to assess what is already known or needs to be understood about saltwater intrusion.
“The goal is to identify existing gaps in knowledge and stakeholder needs to better inform resource planning and stormwater management,” Davis said.
She recently completed a project in Ocean Springs, MS, that focused on finding nature-based solutions to ease flooding issues in the city and surrounding Jackson County.
“Projects like these have a real impact, helping communities adapt to the challenges they face and creating more sustainable futures,” Davis said.
In addition to her work on saltwater intrusion, Davis is a Habitat Resilience Specialist with the Program for Local Adaptation to Climate Effects (PLACE), where she focuses on addressing the impacts of sea-level rise on coastal habitats and infrastructure. One of her most rewarding experiences was collaborating with communities to develop solutions for extreme rainfall and flooding.
“Seeing the pride and ownership people felt is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. It’s meaningful to see people so engaged in work that directly impacts their families and neighborhoods,” she said.
In her free time, Davis enjoys trying new recipes, exploring restaurants, baking and spending time outdoors. She also crochets and plays the ukulele and guitar. Whether for work on the Mississippi Coast or visiting her family near Lake Michigan, she appreciates any opportunity to connect with nature.
