Conrad Gowell grew up in the diverse watersheds of Oregon. He quickly developed a fascination for the aquatic world that has inspired him to act on behalf of wild fish and rivers throughout his life. His interests in ecology, evolution, and the environment led him to complete a degree in biology from the University of Puget Sound in 2012. Since then, he has worked with non-profit organizations, academic institutions, sovereign nations, and fisheries consultants aiming to advance science-based management of fish and restoration of watersheds throughout the Pacific Northwest.
Conrad brings to the Wild Fish Conservancy a policy and research background, and experience with habitat restoration and protection. He also brings with him a vision for better relationships between the different communities and cultures that depend on fish and rivers.
Conrad lives with his wife in McMinnville, Oregon and when not at work can most often be found foraging for wild foods, or wandering in a wild stream somewhere in the Oregon Coast Range.