1. What led you to pursue a career in freshwater management?
I was born and raised in Milwaukee, WI. As the youngest of six siblings (of which four were older sisters!), I had a deep love for Mother Earth and knew from an early age that I wanted to work outdoors. In 1979, I entered the University of Wisconsin, Stephen’s Point.
During the first few weeks of Forestry classes, listening to my instructors preach about the loss of the nation’s farming lands to multiplying shopping malls, I determined that my influence and education should reflect a homage to my professorial rantings. So, I graduated in 1983 with dual Bachelor of Science Degrees in Soil Science and Natural Resource Management.
2. Tell us about your background and expertise.
My first job out of school was for a biochemistry company headquartered in Mequon, WI. For over a year, I handled a 15-state territory as an Aquatic Biologist. Ironically, on April Fool’s Day in 1985, I literally answered a call to my future: moving to Arizona to manage lakes and ponds out of Tempe.
As my career evolved, I found myself drawn to the problem-solving aspect of lake and pond management. Identifying water quality problems and designing custom solutions has always been exciting for me. Though Mother Nature does not always cooperate with the game plan, she does provide a never-ending challenge!
3. What does your average day look like?
If you are counting, this month marks my 35th year of freshwater consulting in Arizona! What started as a man in a boat with a few small clients in a little town near Phoenix has prospered and grown. I am thrilled to now be a part of SOLitude Lake Management!
While my ‘man in a boat’ days are often left to younger, more lithe colleagues, I still find myself problem-solving while providing clients with the best lake and pond care possible in the harsh climate of the southwestern desert. A typical day could include handling customer questions and satisfaction, to evaluating water quality and watching for weather trends, to providing a new account a consultation of a fountain, aeration system or fisheries study.
Helping to lead a nationwide company has opened new doors of opportunity and supplied more platforms of services, truly allowing me to become a helpful, honest and loyal freshwater consultant.
4. If you could be one animal, what would you be and why?
Franklin D. Roosevelt was once quoted as saying: “Happiness lies in the joy of achievement and the thrill of creative effort.” Yes, after 35 years, I can truly say I have reached Nirvana! The only thing better would be to be reincarnated as a Tiger Muskie in one of my favorite Northern Wisconsin lakes!
Contact the experts at 888-480-5253 for all of your lake, pond and fisheries management needs.
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