Brian Zierdt Memorial Internship Fund

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

To honor the memory of Brian Zierdt (1974-2026), the South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group (SPSSEG) is establishing new mentoring and internship programs focused on fisheries science, geospatial analysis, and data science. As a dedicated staff member, Brian was a passionate supporter of professional development and hands-on learning for students, often advocating for increased opportunities for promising individuals in these fields. These programs aim to carry forward his legacy by providing students with the technical skills and practical experience he valued so highly.
During his tenure from 2016 to 2025, Brian was instrumental in modernizing the SPSSEG office through his mastery of GIS, drone technology, and advanced data management systems. His expertise helped transform the organization into a tech-savvy professional environment, where he excelled in applying modern tools to complex environmental challenges. The following highlights some of the significant professional contributions he made during his time with the organization, illustrating his impact on salmon enhancement and data-driven conservation.

 

  • Drone Pilot and Aerial Imagery
  • Photogrammetry and Monitoring Tools
  • Hydrology Monitoring
  • Creating awesome Databases
  • Culvert Prioritization Models
  • Survey Data Collection and Management
  • Installing Groundwater Wells
  • River Staff Gauges
  • Problem Solving Technical Issues
  • Graphic Design
  • And our favorite, Star Wars nerd!

This time series of high resolution drone orthomosaics spans six years of restoration
monitoring at the SPC Preserve site. Much of this dataset was built by Brian, who established
the flight missions, ground control workflows, and photogrammetric processing pipelines that
made long-term, repeatable monitoring possible here. His work laid the foundation for
everything that comes after. Slide through the timeline to see the record he left behind.

 

All contributions will be dedicated to funding internship opportunities at the South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group (SPSSEG). SPSSEG is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization and your contribution is tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Our EIN is 91-1519762. If you would like to give a cash or check donation, please make it out to: 

 

South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group
Brian Zierdt Memorial Internship Fund
6700 Martin Way East
Suite 112
Olympia, WA 98516

 

If you send cash or a check, please attach your email address and mailing address. Once we receive the donation, we will send you a thank you letter and receipt with our EIN number that can be used for tax purposes.