Susan Van Der Ende
A Professional Agrologist in Watershed Stewardship
What Do They Do?
Susan works with farmers and landowners to assess and improve the health of riparian areas; vegetated zones along rivers and streams critical to water and ecosystem health.
She conducts fieldwork, collects data, and writes unbiased scientific reports that inform land management decisions. Her role bridges science, stewardship, and community relationships, helping landowners understand how their practices impact waterways.
Through programs like the Environmental Farm Plan and Farmland Advantage, Susan also provides education and mentorship, with the goal of supporting both thriving ecosystems and sustainable agriculture.
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Why Does It Matter?
Susan’s work is critical because water is fundamental. She's passionate about protecting the water that sustains all life, and sees riparian health as the foundation for long-term sustainability, for people, farms, and ecosystems. By protecting riparian areas on agricultural lands, Susan helps maintain healthy water systems that support biodiversity, food security, and the long-term health of our environment.
“Water is everything—it’s what we drink, what our food depends on, and what supports aquatic life. Without it, we have nothing. We live in one of the most pristine watersheds, and if we damage it, where will we turn? By protecting riparian areas, we’re protecting our future.” — Susan Van Der Ende
How Did They Get There?
Completed a Bachelor in Biology (with a minor in Environmental Toxicology) and a Bachelor of Technology in Environmental Engineering.
Earned her Professional Agrologist (PAg) designation and maintains it through ongoing professional development.
Grew up on a farm and gained hands-on experience through fieldwork, environmental programs, and close collaboration with farmers.
Advanced her career through networking, mentorship, and volunteering in agrology with environmental organizations.
Built a career that bridges ecology and agriculture—creating science-based restoration prescriptions that guide riparian stewardship on farmland.
Want To Follow A Similar Path?
Susan’s story is one example of how Professional Agrologists are making a real impact in watershed health. If you’re curious about this career path—what the job involves, how people enter the field, and why it matters—keep reading. The Career Spotlight below offers a closer look at the role of a Professional Agrologist working in watershed stewardship.
What do Professional Agrologists do in Watersheds?
Professional Agrologists implementing riparian stewardship activities focus on restoring natural ecosystems and improving watershed health, especially in riparian zones along streams, rivers, and wetlands on agricultural land.
They work alongside, and often ahead of, restoration professionals by conducting detailed riparian health assessments. They evaluate the condition of the land and water systems and develop tailored prescriptions for restoration or management actions.
These recommendations are then discussed collaboratively with restoration professionals and agricultural landowners to create effective, locally informed plans that respect land use and integrate traditional knowledge. The restoration professionals then proceed to plant native species, stabilize eroding banks, and implement projects that enhance biodiversity, water quality, and climate resilience.
What's a Typical Pathway?
Most begin with a degree in environmental science, geography, agriculture, ecology, or biology. Many go on to earn their Professional Agrologist (P.Ag) designation through the BC Institute of Agrologists, which certifies their expertise and allows them to advise on land and water management practices.
Experience in fieldwork, habitat monitoring, or ecosystem assessment is common, often gained through volunteer, internship or employment opportunities with conservation groups, environmental agencies or consulting firms. Some are also trained through specialized training programs (e.g. Environmental Farm Plan Program).
Why Does This Matter?
Riparian areas are essential for healthy watersheds. The riparian area is the transitional zone of land between an aquatic ecosystem (like a stream, river, lake, or wetland) and a terrestrial (land) ecosystem. They support fish and wildlife, filter pollutants, and reduce flooding.
Professional Agrologists work with agricultural landowners to ensure that these areas remain strong and resilient, especially as climate change brings more extreme weather and pressures on the land.
Technology & Innovation
Career Spotlight
Profession: Water Tech Entrepreneur
What do Entrepreneurs do in Watersheds?
Entrepreneurs in water technology and innovation design and develop cutting-edge tools and systems that monitor, treat, and protect water resources in real time. Their work ranges from creating smart sensors and automated water treatment technologies to building data platforms that provide actionable insights for managing watershed health. These solutions are used by a wide range of stakeholders to detect pollution early, optimize water use, ensure regulatory compliance, and respond rapidly to environmental challenges. By leveraging technology, these entrepreneurs help transform traditional water management into a proactive, data-driven practice that safeguards ecosystems and supports sustainable development.
What's a Typical Pathway?
There is no one-size-fits-all path to becoming a water tech entrepreneur. Many founders begin with academic or professional backgrounds in fields such as environmental science, hydrology, engineering, software development, or chemistry. Hands-on experience working in water management, research, or environmental consulting often sparks ideas for innovative solutions. To bring these ideas to market, entrepreneurs commonly seek business skills through startup accelerators, incubators, mentorship programs, or formal education like MBAs or technology management courses. They learn to navigate product development, funding, market fit, and regulatory landscapes. Ultimately, success requires blending technical expertise with entrepreneurial agility to build scalable and impactful solutions.
Why does it Matter?
As pressures on watersheds increase, the need for innovative, responsive, and cost-effective water management tools has never been greater. Entrepreneurs in water technology are essential for bridging the gap between scientific research and practical application. They develop real-time, data-driven solutions that enhance monitoring, control, and treatment of water resources. These tools enable faster, smarter decision-making that protects aquatic ecosystems, safeguards public health, and supports economic growth. By closing gaps between technology and real-world needs, water tech entrepreneurs play a vital role in delivering timely solutions that secure resilient and sustainable water resources for the future.