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James Dunbar is CWP's newest Water Resources Engineer.
How did you get started working on watersheds?
I am an avid paddler and general river-user, so watersheds are always on my brain! My first job out of college was for DC Government in their stormwater permitting process, and I am so thankful for that break because I have loved my career working on watersheds and with local government
What is your favorite part about working for the Center?
Working for the Center, I can help so many other local governments and communities with the same issues my own community faces, so they may enjoy their waterways as much as I have
At which store would you like to max-out your credit card?
Definitely REI. So much good gear for every season and occasion. New bike, new skis, new waterproof pants…the sky is the limit.
What was your favorite TV show when growing up?
I was a devoted SpongeBob SquarePants kid, but only the classic first two seasons. My dad and I used to recite a bunch of the one-liners to each other and make each other laugh. For a while we used to answer the phone to each other, “Hi, is this the Krusty Krab?” “No, this is James!”
What is the nerdiest thing you do in your spare time?
I’m one of those people who scrolls through rivers and streams on Google Maps and traces them from source to mouth and marks all the canoe launch points along the way. Because one day you might want to check it out in real life!
What is your favorite river?
I am obligated to say the Anacostia River in DC because it’s the one I experience the most and have spent the most time professionally trying to clean up. There is a particular section that runs along the National Arboretum that is so quiet and peaceful, it doesn’t feel like you’re in the city anymore. Runner up is the Monocacy River in Frederick, Maryland; that one has lots of twists, turns, and eddies, and is really fun to paddle.
What do you want to make sure you do before you die?
I have several adventure-style paddle races on my list. My most recent interest is the Great Glen Paddle Challenge, which is a 92km paddle across Scotland from Fort Williams to Inverness. There is a section through Loch Ness and the route passes by many old castles. With any luck, Nessie will pay me a visit along the way.
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