Over the last 6 months, OCE’s Natural Resources Ecologist, Mary Beth Poli, PWS, has been leading a group of about 20 dedicated Vermont wetland professionals in forming a new organization, the Vermont Association of Wetland Science (VAWS). A primary goal of VAWS is to provide Vermont-specific continuing education. The group worked together to plan and hold their first field workshop, which was focused on wetland restoration, attracted 23 attendees, and featured presenters including a soil scientist, a botanist, and 2 wildlife biologists. The inaugural workshop was a success, and planning efforts are already underway for a larger spring workshop. The list of people interested in being part of the organization has grown to over 40 individuals, representing 14 consulting companies, 3 nonprofits, 5 government agencies, and Vermont Technical College.
If you are interested in participating in VAWS or learning more about how OCE can assist with your wetland consulting needs, contact Mary Beth Poli, PWS at poli@ottercrk.com.