I have focused mostly on Watershed Ecology, with keen interests in agriculture, urban development and climate/environmental justice issues. Education and engagement are my primary avenues of connecting with communities and reconnect them with the natural world around us, regardless of geography. My technical expertise ranges from field sampling and monitoring of streams, rivers and lakes (and other ecosystems) to laboratory & statistical analysis in the life sciences. Working with my organization and several other grassroots & grasstops groups, we advocate at all levels of government for strengthening policy to protect our natural resources and in turn our communities, especially underserved/disadvantaged populations across West Michigan. My community experience includes serving on local governmental boards and committees, collaborating with other NGOs & CBOs, engaging with elected and appointed officials, grant writing and project management in cooperation with community partners.