Growing up on the North Coast in Germany, Gwen developed a keen interest in dynamic aquatic ecosystems and their interplay with human communities from a young age. Gwen brings a diverse skill set, her work experience ranging from outdoor and environmental education to regenerative agriculture to ecosystem restoration and monitoring.

While working across Europe, New Zealand and Costa Rica, Gwen often saw the impacts of water stewardship or the lack thereof in different communities. This firsthand experience inspired her to pursue a B.Sc. in Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of Victoria to learn more about how to assist communities with their stewardship challenges. Upon completing her degree, Gwen worked for nonprofits and the provincial and federal government, restoring and monitoring both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

Feeling drawn to the ocean and the temperate rainforest, she now lives on the ancestral territories of the Nuučaanuł Nations in Ucluelet, B.C. She can usually be found outside in her free time, surfing, running, kayaking, hiking or gardening. Passionate about all things water and giving back to local communities, Gwen is beyond excited and grateful to support Living Lakes Canada in her role as Biomonitoring Program Manager.