Coordinator
Jack Severson has a strong, personal commitment to water-related issues, and is joining VISTA to help coordinate and support Secure Water Future. Hailing from the ski slopes of Utah, Jack has made California his summer home with many years working as a whitewater raft guide. His educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree from Western Washington University in Cultural Anthropology and a minor in Environmental Studies. During his time at WWU, Jack engaged in several research projects, gaining skills in data acquisition and organization. Professionally, Jack has worked as a Manager/River Guide at All-Outdoors Whitewater Rafting, where he was responsible for managing day-to-day operations of rafting trips, maintaining high safety and customer satisfaction standards, maintaining and repairing equipment, and cooking for guests on multi-day trips. His experiences and role as a professional skier and river guide has given him practical experience and insight into hydrology, local, and regional water-related systems and issues. This combination of academic knowledge and professional experience in both alpine and river environments has significantly contributed to his understanding of water management and conservation efforts. His hands-on experience with water issues in the west will enable him to explore water management and conservation efforts passionately and effectively. Jack’s commitment to these issues will help Secure Water Future accelerate its research, education, and extension mission in the coming year.