My academic research experience focused on how human impacts affect hydrologic processes at multiple spatial scales. As a doctoral student in the biogeochemistry program at Cornell University, I explored linkages between wetland plant communities and ground water dynamics. My research led me to find that supply of terminal electron acceptors, mainly in the form of excess nitrate and sulfate, can have strong effects on phosphorus availability, depending on background water chemistry. After completing my field research, I joined the Spatial Ecology and Landscape Modeling laboratory at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. Here, I developed extensive experience with a wide range of watershed models including HSPF, SWAT, GWLF, and SPARROW, among others. In addition, I developed spatial models to map wetland processes using high resolution LiDAR data. Our results have generated strong traction with county level planners, but the model also provides an exciting opportunity to explore variation in ecosystem processes at the watershed scale.

Most recently, as the watershed scientist for The Nature Conservancy’s Chesapeake Bay restoration program, I have had great opportunities to combine my experiences in field research and modeling and to help guide discussions linking science and management. We are applying adaptive management principles, in part as a basis to identify science relevant to defining policy targets and information gaps that limit our ability to manage resources effectively. Applications include identifying environmental flow thresholds for protection of freshwater species, exploring reservoir sediment management options, and developing effective bmp targeting approaches to improve water quality.

Since 2007, I have served as member and now Chair of the Queenstown Planning Commission in Queen Anne’s County. This experience has allowed me to develop a practical understanding of the challenges that local- and county- governments must accommodate to reach regional goals like restoring the Chesapeake Bay. Engaging with local leaders has been invaluable to our efforts within The Nature Conservancy as we attempt to link stakeholder concerns with federal, state, and local policies.