Nick Banish

Background

About Nick Banish

Nick Banish developed his skills as a freshwater ecologist at the University of Montana where his coursework was geared towards the application of engineering principles to assess lotic ecosystem carbon and dissolved material flux, aquatic biogeochemical cycling and quantitative analysis of ecological datasets. Most recently, Nick applied his skills as District Manager of a State of Montana local water quality district, where he led a team of scientists in the characterization and assessment of surface waters, the drinking water aquifer, and recreational waterbodies to protect beneficial uses, ecological integrity and human health. Under his management, the local water district was at the forefront of furthering the understanding of pollution in stream and river ecosystems in the Gallatin Valley. As a local expert, he participated in the Montana State Legislature's Water Policy Interim Committee, translating scientific information to policy makers. He served as a liaison to the State of Montana Department of Environmental Quality's Nutrient Work Group to provide clarity and detail to regional issues in SW Montana. Nick developed and implemented educational curricula aimed at fostering the next generation of water stewards, introducing hundreds of local school children to freshwater ecology. He spearheaded the development of well-testing workshops to help well owners test and understand the composition of their drinking water. As an ecologist, leader and public servant, Nick is committed to using his toolkit to advance the concepts of freshwater ecology for the benefit of all.