Brian Fannon spent 11 formative years as a biologist in Alaskan marine fisheries before returning to North Carolina for his PhD studying the effects of river geomorphology on the landscape. Today, he works as a "Riverkeeper" at non-profit Yadkin Riverkeeper, where he monitors, advocates for, and protects the health of the Yadkin-Pee Dee River Basin.

The Great Lakes Observing System (GLOS) is a non-profit that harnesses data on science, policy, management and industry in the Great Lakes region. CEO Kelli Paige spoke to ESAL about the services GLOS provides to facilitate management and policy needs in the region.