Sound Rivers Brings New Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper Onboard

WASHINGTON, NC – Sound Rivers (SRI) has recently hired Forrest English to take on the role of your Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper from outgoing Riverkeeper Heather Deck. Heather, now serving as SRI’s Executive Director, is excited to welcome Forrest to the organization.

“After an extensive nationwide search, I’m extremely pleased to have Forrest join the Sound Rivers team,” said Heather Deck.  “With more than ten years of experience in advocating for the protection of our water resources, Forrest brings a wealth of knowledge that will support our local community’s efforts to protect the Tar-Pamlico River.”

Forrest brings a range of experience to the position, including previous work as a water quality technician, wildlife surveyor, deckhand on commercial fishing boats, and heavy equipment operator on watershed restoration projects. Most recently Forrest has worked with Klamath Riverkeeper and was the director of Rogue Riverkeeper, where he advocated for the health of river watersheds in the west. Forrest brings valuable experience to his new position with Sound Rivers. This includes experience with the design and implementation of water quality studies using community volunteers, and building relationships with local government and other non-profits. He has had success and played key roles in coalition efforts that have, for over a decade, staved off a massive gas pipeline and fossil fuel export terminal that would cross hundreds of waterways in Oregon; as well as helped secure protections for native fish from gold mining.

Forrest has previously lived in North Carolina while working on renewable energy and on small farms.

“I’m excited to be coming back to North Carolina, and I look forward to doing my part to restore fisheries and protect our clean water,” said Forrest English, Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper.

Forrest will be working out of Sound Rivers Washington office and can be reached by email at pamtarrk@soundrivers.org or by phone at (252) 946-7211. Be sure to give him a warm welcome when you have the opportunity.