Science education and environmental conservation drew Carlos into the field of Watershed Ecology, with a focus on the urban environment. He has worked on a variety of green infrastructure and watershed management projects that protect the integrity of the Grand River and Lake Michigan.
Prior to joining the WMEAC Water Programs team, Carlos earned his Master’s of Science in Aquatic Biology from Grand Valley State University, where he completed his Undergraduate as well (B.S. in Biology). During his Graduate Assistantship with the Grand Valley Metro Council, he worked to support the LGROW Environmental Program, providing watershed education to the community. While studying the Indian Mill Creek, he led the Friends of Indian Mill Creek in stream cleanups, storm drain adoption and water quality monitoring.
Water and community have been central components of Carlos’ life. Northern Michigan’s Inland Waterway and the Straits of Mackinac were the backdrop of his youth in Cheboygan. Grand Rapids and West Michigan have now been home for almost 20 years, and he continues to be involved in the community through work with the Garfield Park Neighborhoods Association and Plaster Creek Stewards, among others. He spends his free time gardening, catching a live show or hockey game, enjoying the natural landscape and aquatic resources of the Mitten, and exploring the World with his family.
