Pearls of Wisdom: Insights from Women with Distinguished Careers in Freshwater Science, Law, and Policy
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Science is the backbone of decision-making at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). As an aquatic entomologist and ecologist working in EPA’s scientific research arm, I have led or contributed to national research initiatives to inform Clean Water Act (CWA) policy decisions and support implementation of CWA programs to monitor, protect, and restore inland waters, including wetlands. Reflecting on my 10 years at EPA, I am struck by the disproportionately high number of women working in freshwater science and protection. Here, I provide career insights from some of the distinguished women – from both sides of the science-policy interface – I have been privileged to collaborate or interact with while at EPA. I also reflect on interesting twists and turns in my own career and the unique opportunities and challenges I have encountered in as a federal scientist doing policy-relevant stream and wetland research.