Our People

Jeff Collins

President

Jeff served until recently as the Senior Director of Conservation Science at Mass Audubon, leading research, wildlife conservation, and land management programs. He holds a BA in Physics from Middlebury College and an MSc in Botany from the University of Vermont Field Naturalist Program.

River-related passions

Environmental conservation, connecting people to the natural world, and the connection of the entire watershed to water quality and quantity

Professional interests

Landscape ecology and conservation science

Other personal interests

OARS Wild & Scenic Film Festival. Represents OARS on the Warner’s Pond Task Force in Concord and formerly chaired the West Concord Advisory Committee (2014–2019), a Concord Planning Board subcommittee. Currently serves on the MA Department of Conservation and Recreation Stewardship Council.

~30%

of the SuAsCo rivers watershed is wetlands, crucial for wildlife habitat and water quality

~30%

of water samples in the SuAsCo rivers watershed contain PFAS, leading to increased monitoring and remediation by local authorities and environmental groups

~70%

of dams in the SuAsCo watershed are over a century old, requiring extensive upkeep and presenting obstacles to river restoration and fish passage

>40%

of the land within the watershed is publicly accessible, offering recreational opportunities such as hiking, boating, and birdwatching to the community

~15%

of the land in the SuAsCo rivers watershed is covered by impervious surfaces such as roads, rooftops, and parking lots. This contributes to stormwater runoff and water pollution issues

>40%

of the land within the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers watershed is publicly accessible, providing endless opportunities for paddling, hiking, and wildlife exploration.

Our People

Jeff Collins

River-related passions

Professional interests

Other personal interests

Our People

Jeff Collins

River-related passions

Professional interests

Other personal interests

OARS SEEKS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR