Tom received his undergraduate degree at Cornell University before completing his graduate work in aquatic ecology at the University of Wisconsin where he received his PhD. Tom has worked at the University of Washington where his research projects have focused on the dynamics of nutrients returning salmon bring to river ecosystems and the structural development of riparian forests along large floodplain rivers. Tom has experience working with resource agencies including the National Park Service and Forest Service as many of his research projects have been conducted on public land. Tom has also taught courses in aquatic ecology, including watershed ecology and management, both at the university level and for youth programs. Tom has worked on flow issues at hydropower projects and has contributed his professional expertise in advocating for imporved flows to benefit aquatic resources and recreational users.

Rich lives in Bellingham, WA with his wife Stephanie and daughter Danna. Since moving to Bellingham from Maryland in 2001, Rich has been a nonprofit consultant, a Board Member of the Whatcom Land Trust, and a volunteer river advocate for many issues. Rich is the former Executive Director of American Whitewater, and before that, Conservation and Hydropower Program Director. He is happy to be on, under, or in water in whatever form; snow, river or ocean.