Claramarie (Coowe) Walker

Watershed Specialist
Kachemak Bay Research Reserve
95 Sterling Highway, Suite 2
Homer, AK 99603
(907) 226-4651
Coowe.Walker@alaska.gov

As the watershed specialist for the Reserve, I am working to develop and coordinate watershed research project s that will provide insights into how the streams of the lower Kenai Peninsula are connected with terrestrial and ocean ecosystems. These streams are focal points for human and animal activity, especially with the annual anadromous salmon runs. Example projects include investigations into the presence and effects of salmon-derived nutrients on stream watershed ecosystems, the importance of headwater streams and riparian wetlands for juvenile fish habitat, and developing a tool for evaluating wetland functions in the landscape. I strive to make each research project relevant through education and outreach projects with the intention of fostering stewardship.

My scientific background is in wetland ecology, landscape ecology and wildlife management. I earned an MS degree in Environmental Science from the University of Virginia. I have worked in refuge management (US Fish and Wildlife Service, Rhode Island Audubon Society), biological control of invasive species in wetlands (Cornell University Entomology Lab), museum prep technician (Smithsonian Institute Division of Birds). For the five years prior to moving to Alaska, I owned and operated a small (four employees) wetlands consulting business in western Washington State.

We are fortunate that our ecosystems here in Alaska have not been subjected to the degree of degradation that exists in much of the contiguous U.S. When not working, I take pleasure in relaxing with my family and friends, playing music and enjoying the wonderful outdoors that Alaska has to offer.

"What was big was not the trout, but the chance" - Aldo Leopold.