NFS Announces New Executive Director
“Mark’s passion for wild salmon, steelhead and trout, his on-the-ground experience growing our grassroots network of River Stewards, and years working on our most ambitious conservation campaigns make him a natural fit for his new role. We are thrilled to have Mark at the helm as our organization enters its next chapter of effective native fish advocacy,” said Paul Fortino, NFS Board Chairman.
Mark joined the Native Fish Society in 2010 and honed his skills working for the organization as a grassroots organizer, fundraiser, conservation strategist and communications specialist. As a lifelong lover of wild places and native fish, Mark explored Alaska as a commercial salmon fisherman and hitchhiked across Patagonia alternating between fly fishing guide and trout bum. For years he led climbing, backpacking, and rafting adventures in Colorado’s Arkansas River Valley and the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness.
“About ten years ago it hit me, all of the wild rivers and the native fish I connect with so deeply only exist today as the direct result of hard won conservation campaigns. By in large these efforts were spearheaded by a few local people who were determined to make a difference" said Mr. Sherwood. “From then on I knew my purpose, I moved to the Northwest to work in conservation at the intersection of native fish and local communities."
"Through our River Steward Program, the Native Fish Society has developed the most effective network of local grassroots volunteers in support of wild, native fish conservation anywhere in the Pacific Northwest. I’m incredibly humbled to serve such a talented team of staff and volunteers who are dedicated to empowering communities and deliver durable conservation results for native fish”
Mr. Sherwood will focus his efforts on strategically increasing the capacity of the Native Fish Society so that it can address the growing needs of native fish and the grassroots advocates fighting on their behalf.