A Note From Our NEW Water Quality Specialist: Nicky Vermeersch

As a nature and outdoor-loving individual, I am thrilled to join the Meadows Center’s Watershed Services Team and the Texas Stream Team as a Water Quality Specialist! I began my journey in the water quality field by pursuing a bachelor’s in environmental science from Stephen F. Austin State University. Through my courses, I had the opportunity to participate in undergraduate research, where my group and I sampled various water bodies to determine the impacts of stormwater runoff on general water quality parameters and metal concentrations. 

After completing my bachelor’s, I interned for the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, where I assisted in sampling events for the Clean Rivers Program. This ultimately sealed my goal of pursuing a career in water quality protection and pushed me to pursue a master’s in environment and resources management at Vrije Universiteit in Amsterdam, Netherlands. 

After completing my master’s, I eventually began my career in water quality as an Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Specialist at Texas State, where I co-coordinated the stormwater management program for 2.5 years. As an EHS Specialist, I assisted in detecting and eliminating illicit discharges, implementing good housekeeping practices to prevent stormwater pollution, and educating the Texas State University community on stormwater pollution prevention practices. Ultimately, through my position, I participated in the Texas Stream Team community scientist training and was ecstatic for the opportunity to further develop my skills in water quality testing. 

With my new position as a Water Quality Specialist for the Texas Stream Team, I am beyond excited to strengthen my impact on water quality protection and meet many new people who share my passion.