TU’s Northeast Conservation program has welcomed a key role player to the team. Jon C. Vander Werff is TU’s new Connecticut project manager.
Vander Werff will orchestrate the 2025 Norwalk River Cannondale Dam (below) removal project, partnering with regional staff leads Tracy Brown and Jesse Vadala to execute this major project and connect our mission of conservation to a diverse local community of river stewards and enthusiasts.
Vander Werff is an avid outdoorsman with an extensive background in riverine fisheries surveys, monitoring dam removal sites, and facilitation of river restoration projects. Additionally, he has helped in the installation of green infrastructure and provides a firm foundation for the implementation of nature-based solutions to benefit trout and improve their habitat.
Vander Werff received his bachelor’s in wildlife management with a concentration in fisheries from the State University of New York at Cobleskill.
While studying at Cobleskill, his research included a biodiversity assessment of native fish in the Amazon River and immediate tributaries.
Vander Werff graduated with his master’s degree, from the University of Rhode Island in watershed management, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing.
While he was at URI, Vander Werff’s thesis research involved monitoring water temperature influenced by historic mill dams and how altered temperature regimes affected brook trout. This research enabled conversations and regulations changes to give way to the first Brook Trout Preserve in the state of Rhode Island, the Beaver River.
Prior to receiving his masters, Vander Werff was employed as a professional fly-fishing guide in the greater Yellowstone and Grand Teton ecosystems in the Wind River Range of Wyoming. This position furthered a strong passion for native fish conservation and presently inspires his work and research.
The individuals who make up our staff and grassroots here at TU are a huge component of our success across the country. Vander Werff looks forward to working with TU’s members and supporters across Connecticut. Got a question about the upcoming Norwalk Dam Removal ? Drop Vander Werff an email at: jon.vanderwerff@tu.org