Welcoming Our New Stream Scientist
We’re excited to welcome Rose Smith, Stream Ecologist, to our team. Rose will be focusing on our Stream & Riparian Restoration Program and has an extensive background in ecosystem ecology and stream work. Get to know her through our brief interview below.
Rose building a beaver dam analogue as part of our project to restore degraded Utah streams.
What does conservation mean to you?
Conservation is important to me for so many reasons. On a pragmatic level, we humans require a habitat, clean water, and clean air to survive just like any other species. Climate change, certain land use practices, and ambivalence toward the natural world all threaten our well-being.
There is also inherent value in conservation beyond direct benefits to people. To quote Terry Tempest Williams, "We are not the only species that lives and loves and breathes and grieves on this miraculous planet called Earth...". We have the tools to repair our relationship with the natural world through restoration, stewardship, and education.
What originally drew you to Wild Utah Project?
I was drawn to working with Wild Utah Project because of the unique model of doing high quality, highly collaborative science that addresses pressing needs in the conservation community. The volunteer engagement and community science aspects of Wild Utah Project were also super exciting to me.
How do you think your expertise will make a difference in Wild Utah Project’s work?
I am an ecosystem ecologist with experience researching problems and potential solutions to water quality and quantity in rivers and streams, and teaching urban planning courses. I've worked extensively in urban watersheds, where the potential to restore habitat is great—for humans and wildlife alike. I think my urban ecology work brings a unique perspective and new opportunities to engage with the community.
Rose taking measurements as part of her work with streams.
What are you most excited about in our upcoming work?
I'm very excited to be joining Wild Utah Project during a time of great momentum and growth! Janice, Mary, Sarah and Josh are an absolute dream team. The Stream and Riparian program has tremendous potential to grow in multiple directions - my challenge will be to prioritize!