Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline

David Boelen

Citrus Heights,CA

Summary

Fisheries Biologist with 11+ years experience in field sampling, laboratory methods, data collection, and aquatic species tagging. Skilled in employing advanced techniques to monitor fish populations, assess ecosystem health, and support conservation initiatives. Adept at leading field crews, conducting precise research, and providing insightful analysis for sustainable resource management.

Overview

11
11
years of professional experience

Work History

Fisheries Biologist

Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC)
West Sacramento, CA
09.2015 - 08.2024
  • Directed field crew in utilizing large wire fyke traps to sample salmonids and other anadromous species, while prioritizing fish welfare and maintaining precise data collection.
  • Led data collection and analysis efforts for an investigatory study on Yuba River steelhead and rainbow trout feeding behavior and movement patterns.
  • Exhibited high-level proficiency in surgical tagging and biological sample collection, enhancing fish survival and tracking.
  • Expertly overseen the operation and maintenance of project vehicles and boats, guaranteeing the safety and efficiency of sampling procedures under adverse conditions.
  • Enhanced team performance and operational effectiveness through the facilitation of training sessions for new technicians on vital tasks like field sampling techniques, trap assembly skills, laboratory procedures, boat maneuvering abilities, and entering biological/environmental data.
  • Streamlined multiple PSMFC project databases and SOPs to optimize data processing.
  • Contributed to data analysis and authored project reports and monthly summaries for CDFW and PSMFC supervisors using a variety of graphical and statistical techniques.
  • Performed precise identification of invertebrates and fishes in over 400 gastric lavage and drift samples, facilitating comprehensive examination of rainbow trout and steelhead seasonal feeding patterns.
  • Ensured the upkeep and supported the installation process of multiple in-river and in-hatchery PIT tag antenna arrays throughout the Central Valley.

Scientific Aide

California Department of Fish and Wildlife
Sacramento, CA
06.2013 - 09.2015
  • Engaged with anglers during creel surveys, gathering crucial fisheries usage data and fostering positive community relations. Collected vital angler data to inform management decisions.
  • Participated in a study examining fish passage during low-water drought conditions through the assistance of juvenile steelhead seine netting and tagging.
  • Supported steelhead acoustic tagging project by participating in fish capture, tag implantation, and mobile acoustic telemetry activities to evaluate fish movement.
  • Expertly operated various watercraft and vehicles throughout California's Central Valley Rivers and Delta, ensuring safe transportation for field research and data collection activities.
  • Entered data into the project database and ensured data correctness through quality control processes.

Education

Graduate Certificate - Fisheries Management

Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
03.2019

Bachelor of Science - Biological Sciences

California State University, Sacramento, CA
05.2013

Skills

  • Microsoft Office
  • Fisheries Field and Laboratory Methods
  • Boat Driving
  • Database Maintenance
  • Surgical Fish Tagging
  • Supervision & Leadership
  • Writing reports
  • Statistical Data Analysis
  • Leadership and Training
  • Fish and Invertebrate Identification

Timeline

Fisheries Biologist - Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission (PSMFC)
09.2015 - 08.2024
Scientific Aide - California Department of Fish and Wildlife
06.2013 - 09.2015
Oregon State University - Graduate Certificate, Fisheries Management
California State University - Bachelor of Science, Biological Sciences
David Boelen