Hans B. Berge

Job Description: I work on a variety of fisheries issues including habitat restoration, habitat inventory, habitat monitoring, property acquisition, aquatic monitoring, fisheries sampling, public outreach.

Much of my work is revolved around sampling fishes, and determining the suitability of the aquatic environment to sustain fisheries. I work with several species listed under ESA (bull trout and Puget Sound chinook).

Another component is my work in the agricultural areas. I help farmers to improve some of their practices to reduce the degree of harm to aquatic environments. I help them design riparian zones along some of their "ditches" to improve the condition of the aquatic habitat on their property.

The attached photo is of me collecting Genetic Stock Identification (GSI) data on fall run chinook salmon (1999). We sample dead chinook to determine their identification characteristics, and compare the results to those of hatchery fish to determine if they are indeed "wild".

Years in the Profession: 6 years (some of it was concurrent with school).

Prerequisite Education/Experience (work history) :

B.S. Degree in Fisheries, Biology, Aquatic Ecology, or any other Environmental Science. At least 1 year of experience, of which a M.S. could substitute.

To be competitive in this field, it is important to gain experience while in school. Often you get to work with great people who will provide you with a greater knowledge than you can learn in school.

I worked for the USDA Forest Service prior to getting a job at King County. I got excellent training and experience through working for some excellent fisheries scientists. I also made some great friends and had a great mentor as a boss.

Salary Range: $36,000 to $45,000 per year.

Get experience in your field before graduation from college. Volunteer for a government agency, or environmental consulting firm. Any training that you can get early is invaluable. Try to setup a co-op, or internship during college, this will help you get that first job. Contact the local American Fisheries Society chapter, and make contacts with people that can help you gain experience in the field.