In November 2018, the Big Hole Watershed Committee’s Executive Director of 6+ years, Jen Downing, announced her decision to step down from her position. Over 6 years, she poured the foundation for a highly effective organization and re-established the Big Hole Watershed Committee as a model for collaborative natural resource management and the delivery of high-quality restoration projects.
As Jen transitions out, we’ve developed an innovative re-structuring plan to build on her legacy of success, resilience, and community engagement while maximizing the talents of our team. Thank you Jen for your tireless support of our watershed – we wish you the very best!
The Big Hole Watershed Committee’s staff now includes:
Pedro Marques- Executive Director. Pedro’s role will be focused on stewarding the organization’s vision and mission, working with our governing board, and raising funds and securing grants to sustain the organization and its projects. Pedro will continue to play a key oversight role with our agency and private partners in the delivery of high-quality restoration projects as well as guiding strategic partnerships into the future.
Tana Nulph- Associate Director. Tana will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the organization. Tana is based in Divide and her connection to the community is vital. She will continue to head up our communications and events and will represent BHWC in key state-wide and regional partnerships. In 2019, she will take on management of the Big Hole River Drought Management Plan.
Ben LaPorte- Program Manager. Ben will expand his role to become the on-the-ground lead for all of our programs. Ben will help coordinate our wildlife conflict programs as well as be the engine for our large restoration portfolio. With his expertise in forestry, Ben will also be charting new directions for us to deliver comprehensive restoration one drainage at a time.
The Montana Standard recently published an article regarding Jen’s announcement to step down as Executive Director of BHWC; it can be viewed here: https://mtstandard.com/news/local/big-hole-river-advocate-steps-down/article_db6be347-2267-56d9-aff1-fdc88ab93390.html.