Who We Are

Doug Geller, M.Sc., P.Geo., P.Geol., FGC.

Principal, Vice-President

A Western Water founding principal who served as the firm’s president from 2011 to 2021, Mr. Geller is a registered professional across Western North America, including BC, Alberta, and Washington and Oregon States, with more than 35 years hydrogeological experience and holds a master’s degree in hydrogeology. He is one of the most experienced practising professional hydrogeologists in B.C. and has been based in western Canada for nearly 20 years. His main areas of practice include providing advice and guidance on groundwater exploration and development programs, regional hydrogeological studies, water licensing and water management, well and aquifer hydraulics, and senior review of technical reports and other documents for a variety of government and First Nation clients, in addition to providing senior review for many WWAL reports. Doug has been an invited speaker at professional conferences on a variety of groundwater related topics in both the U.S. and Canada. Originally drawn to geoscience by his love of the outdoors, Doug enjoys trail running, cross-country skiing, road and mountain biking, and mountaineering.

• Vernon Office

Ryan Rhodes, P.Geo., P.Geol.

Principal, President

A registered Professional Geoscientist in both B.C. and Alberta, Mr. Rhodes provides reliable hydrogeological expertise, advice and management for a variety of projects. With more than 15 years of experience practicing Geoscience, he applies his broad knowledge of physical hydrogeology to a wide range of projects, involving both "getting water out" and "putting water into” the ground. He is a founding Principal of Western Water and served as the firm's vice-president for its first decade of operations, transitioning to President in 2021. Specializing in groundwater supply exploration, evaluation and development, Ryan has overseen the siting, construction and testing of numerous water supply wells for water purveyors, First Nations, the agricultural sector and industry. He is also experienced in the design, construction and closure of flowing artesian wells. He is well versed in the regulatory regimes governing drinking water supply permitting and water quality assessments for Health Authorities, and with Water Sustainability Act as it relates to groundwater and surface water licensing. Ryan has also completed several investigations and impact assessments to support the design and permitting of large wastewater disposal facilities and has specialized experience in the evaluation and design of Rapid Infiltration Basins. He has designed and managed construction of well fields for two large, multi-well open loop geothermal systems, and has completed numerous site evaluations and impact assessments for stormwater infiltration. Ryan was the President of the BC Groundwater Association, the Provincial water well driller, pump installer and groundwater professionals trade organization, for the 2016 – 2018 term and he remains active in the association. Fish fear Ryan and he enjoys skiing, mountain biking, and generally spending time outdoors with his family.

• Vernon Office

Chad Petersmeyer, M.Sc., P.Geo.

Senior Hydrogeologist

A registered Professional Geologist in B.C., Chad Petersmeyer is a Senior Hydrogeologist and Principal with Western Water Associates as a consultant based mainly in his home town of Victoria. He manages our coastal B.C. branch operations from the Victoria office. Chad holds a B.Sc. degree in geoscience from UVic and a M.Sc. degree in hydrogeology from UBC and specializes in physical and contaminant hydrogeology, with major water supply project experience both on the Island and in the Interior of B.C. Chad has served as the hydrogeologist of record on a number of high profile and technically challenging groundwater projects and is well respected in the groundwater industry and with regional and provincial regulators. He has been involved as a Director with the British Columbia Ground Water Association for a number of years. Chad competes in cyclecross (a sport involving crazy people using road bikes where they shouldn’t) and getting outdoors with his wife and two daughters.

• Victoria Office

Trina Koch, R.P.Bio.

Senior Biologist

Trina Koch is a registered professional biologist with nearly two decades experience working as a water science professional. Her client base includes developers, property owners, government agencies, First Nations and those in the mining and forestry sectors. A graduate of the Okanagan University College (now UBCO) Freshwater Science Program, her skill set includes aquatic habitat assessments, limnology, riparian plant identification, species at risk management and fish salvage. Ms. Koch has acted as the President of the Society for the Protection of Kalamalka Lake and routinely leads or participants in creek restoration initiatives. During her time with Western Water, she has managed a two-year water quality and land use study on Coldstream Creek, a three-year project on Vernon and BX Creek and completed numerous land tenure applications, Riparian Area Regulation (RAR) Assessments, Section 11 Change Approvals, Navigable Water Protection Act Applications, municipal permits and DFO Project Review submissions. Most recently, she has completed fish salvage and construction monitoring for bridge repairs following devastating floods in Williams Lake. Trina is a life long resident of BC with the majority of her professional experience in the Okanagan, Kootenay and Central Interior. Naturally the biologist in her enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle that includes hiking, camping with friends, paddle boarding and to the dismay of many, cliff jumping.

• Vernon Office

Warren Grafton, P.Geo.

Hydrogeologist

Warren is a hydrogeologist with a diverse range of experience operating in Northern British Columbia. He’s a proud Prince George local, and graduate of the University of Northern British Columbia. Having been born and raised in the Prince George area, Warren prides himself on approaching projects from a Northern perspective to ensure quality and efficiency for projects in our unique work environment (snow, lots of snow). Mr. Grafton’s experience includes groundwater supply for first nations and municipalities, management of flowing artesian wells and Environmental Impact Studies (EIS) for large wastewater disposal systems. He also has significant experience in contaminated site assessment and remediation, having successfully received several Certificates of Compliance (COCs) and other legal instruments for properties. Much of Warren’s project work has included project management and supervising field crews. He has supervised drilling and excavation contractors during test pitting, groundwater sampling, site decommissioning and remediation system installation projects. Warren has designed and installed multiple high-capacity water wells for drinking water sources and industrial uses including new supply wells for the District of Mackenzie, City of Prince George and 100 Mile House. Warren is an avid mountain biker and competitive karate athlete on the National Team (his nose has been straighter), but when water is plentiful above ground in frozen forms, he can be found skiing in the local mountains.

• Prince George Office

Morgan Jackson, GIT

Junior Hydrogeologist

Morgan Jackson is a graduate of UBC Okanagan receiving her Degree in Earth and Environmental Science with a minor in Mathematics and Statistics. Morgan is registered as a Geoscientist in Training (GIT) with Engineers and Geoscientist of British Columbia (EGBC) and has over 7 years experience practicing Geoscience. Morgan has experience working on a variety of projects developing her skill set in data collection and statistical analysis. She has significant experience in groundwater supply projects including supervision of drilling and pumping testing of supply wells, groundwater licensing, and development of source water protection plans for new or existing wells. Morgan has also been involved in several long term groundwater monitoring programs for landfills, foreshore communities, and municipal spray irrigation across northern BC and the interior. Morgan is passionate about our water resources and has focused her education towards the study of hydrogeology. After working in our Vernon office for several years, Morgan relocated in 2016 and is now based out of our Prince George office. Morgan enjoys all things outdoors including boating, camping, fishing, and mountain biking.

• Prince George Office

Paul Williamson, M.Sc., P.Geo.

Hydrogeologist

Paul is a hydrogeologist with a broad range of experience in hydrogeological assessments, contaminated site investigations and remediation projects. Paul also holds a B.Sc. degree in Environmental Science from the University of Toronto and a M.Sc. degree in hydrogeology from the University of Waterloo. Paul has extensive experience in field data collection, technical report writing, and project management that was developed while servicing multiple stakeholders including private landowners, First Nations communities and the Federal government. During the initial stages of his career, Paul was primarily involved in conducting preliminary and detailed contaminated site investigations and overseeing large scale remediation projects. His experience included designing and supervising numerous drilling and test pitting programs, performing hydraulic response testing, groundwater surveys, and developing detailed conceptual site models. Since joining Western Water Associates, Paul’s experience has shifted to predominately “clean” groundwater, with a focus on exploring, evaluating, and developing groundwater resources. He has designed and installed several high-capacity production wells intended for commercial or public drinking water use. Upon completing a new production well, Paul’s in-depth knowledge of the Water Sustainability Act is a key resource for assisting clients with navigating the groundwater licensing process. He has also worked on the evaluation of multiple large scale wastewater disposal systems and developed groundwater monitoring programs that support these systems. Outside of work, Paul enjoys playing basketball, cross country skiing and spending time with his family.

• Vernon Office

Chris Homes, P.Geo., P.Geol.

Senior Hydrogeologist

Christopher Homes is a registered professional geoscientist, qualified in the field of hydrogeology, serving all levels of government, First Nations and private businesses in BC, Alberta and the Yukon. A graduate of Simon Fraser University’s Earth Sciences Program, his skill set includes physical and contaminant hydrogeology, contaminant fate and transport, and technical writing for the environmental consulting industry. Christopher has extensive experience in groundwater supply development, water supply well construction and assessment, aquifer source protection, dewatering, infiltration characterization, project management and coordination and reporting. He has designed and developed monitoring wells, water supply wells, dewatering wells and injection wells for use in investigations and ongoing operations. He has been a project hydrogeologist on multi-disciplinary projects such as Stormwater Management Plans, Liquid Waste Management Plans, Source Area Protection Plans and has helped develop best management practices for protection of human health and the environment during Site development. He has experience preparing BC CSR Protocol 9 and Protocol 21 Determinations and BC Water Sustainability Act License applications for Ministry approval. He has also managed small teams, including multiple subcontractors, on complex investigation and remediation programs for Public Service and Procurement Canada and Transport Canada in BC and YT. Christopher enjoys the outdoors, travelling whenever possible, and gardening when the weather permits which in the Okanagan is delightfully often.

• Vernon Office

Tim Sivak, MGISA, P.Geo.

Geoscientist/GIS Analyst

Tim is a Professional Geoscientist with a Bachelors of Science in Earth Science from Simon Fraser University and a Master of GIS Applications degree from Vancouver Island University studying water balance. Tim is a well-rounded geoscientist with strong geological and GIS background and experience in a variety of different projects throughout Canada, including hydrogeological and environmental assessments. Tim has conducted hydrogeological studies for groundwater supply, including source water protection plans, well technical assessments, long-term well yield assessments, water budget / hydraulic connection studies, and groundwater feasibility assessments. Tim has also conducted geological investigations for mining, highways, transmission lines, pipeline, and other land development projects. Assignments involved project management and field supervision of drilling, surficial and bedrock geology mapping, deep well installs and testing, soil and water sampling, analysis and reporting. Tim uses his GIS skills to supplement many of his projects, including developing high-quality figures for reports, and managing WWAL’s internal collection of environmental data. Tim also uses Python and R scripting for modeling and task automation. Tim enjoys spending time with his family, jamming with his friends (that means playing music), cycling, swimming and traveling.

• Victoria Office

Mike Wei, M.Eng., P.Eng.

Senior Hydrogeological Consultant

Western Water Associates is pleased to have Mike Wei as part of our team on selected assignments, based out of our Victoria office. Mike spent much of his career with the BC Ministry of Environment (ENV), from which he retired with distinction in early 2018. He is now consulting (Hydro.Geo.Logic) and part of his endeavour includes working with Western Water Associates as a Senior Consultant. As a physical hydrogeologist, Mike has collaborated with a variety of government agencies, regional health authorities, industry, and academia on groundwater resource management projects in B.C. Mike is the former Head of Aquifer and Watershed Science at ENV and program lead for the Province’s Groundwater Program. Mike has been the provincial government technical expert in developing and implementing groundwater legislation, including the Water Sustainability Act, as well as the Water Sustainability Regulation and Groundwater Protection Regulation. Mike has also taught environmental science and hydrogeology at Royal Roads University and the University of Victoria. In 2017, Mike received the International Association of Hydrogeologists Canadian National Chapter’s Farvolden Award, which is Canada’s highest honour for a groundwater scientist.

• Victoria Office

Lisa Gardiner, P.Eng.

Environmental Engineer

Lisa is an environmental engineer with a range of experience working throughout British Columbia, mostly in the north. She is a graduate of the University of Northern British Columbia and University of British Columbia, receiving her degree in Environmental Engineering. Lisa has experience in water supply development, wastewater disposal and contaminated sites assessments. She has completed several municipal and industrial water supply projects through which she gained experience in production well drilling, pumping tests, aquifer test analysis, and also technical support for water licensing. Lisa has experience designing onsite sewerage systems, has completed investigations for large scale wastewater infiltration projects and has been involved in several Environmental Impact Studies (EIS) for wastewater disposal systems. She has a broad range of experience in contaminated site assessment and remediation through her involvement in various contaminated sites projects throughout B.C. Lisa’s project work has included execution and supervision of field projects as well as project management. Lisa has been calling Prince George her home since attending UNBC and enjoys yoga, gardening and cross-country skiing.

• Prince George Office

Natasha Neweduk, B.Sc., GIT

Environmental Scientist

Natasha Neweduk is a Geoscientist In Training and graduate from the University of British Columbia Okanagan, where she received a B.Sc. in Earth and Environmental Science. Natasha is passionate about water resources, environmental sustainability, and hydrogeology. Natasha’s experience is centered around groundwater and surface water sampling, production water-well drilling, well and aquifer testing, data collection, pump test analysis, and environmental monitoring. She has advanced her technical writing skills through well completion reports, groundwater feasibility studies and aquifer impact assessments. Originally based in WWAL’s Vernon location, Natasha is now based out of the Victoria office where she continues to carry out and support field investigations, and complete report analysis and writing. Natasha is grateful to be able to live and work on the beautiful Vancouver Island, where she enjoys being a stereotypical islander, hiking, mountain biking, being a yogi and spending time with her friends and family.

• Victoria Office

Stefanie Schoenberger, R.P.Bio.

Intermediate Biologist

Stefanie Schoenberger is a biologist who has been working in the environmental sector since 2012, serving all levels of government, First Nations, and private businesses. A graduate of the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) in 2015, her skill set includes environmental monitoring, environmental impact assessment, habitat characterization and restoration, field sampling, fish population and health, amphibian salvage and tagging, water sampling, benthic macroinvertebrate sampling and identification, periphyton sampling, sediment and soil sampling, vegetation species identification, riparian area protection regulation (RAPR) assessments, environmental reporting, permit preparation, agency liaison. Stefanie has particular skill with projects involving fish and amphibians. She has completed aquatic health and population sampling of fish within streams of the Elk Valley – primarily focusing on Westslope cutthroat trout, conducted spawning surveys for chum and coho salmon on the Fraser and Vedder Rivers, as well as has been involved in the implementation of fish habitat restoration in streams and lakes. Stefanie has also managed various fish salvage projects utilizing methods including electrofishing, trapping, and seining. She has completed salvage, trapping, measurement, and tagging of endangered Oregon Spotted Frogs in Chilliwack, BC and is experienced in frog identification. Stefanie is an avid athlete and competed with Team Canada bobsleigh between 2018 and 2021 (yes, we are impressed too!). She enjoys outdoor activities including hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting, as well as weightlifting, board games, movies, and spending time with her husband and their two kitties.

• Vernon Office

Valerie Blundell

Environmental Scientist

Valerie Blundell is based out of our Vernon office and works at a variety of locations throughout the province as needed; she provides excellent customer service, while always seeking efficiency with attention to detail. Valerie assists with many WWAL office and field work programs. This includes general admin support, report writing, organization of field equipment, preparation of safety supplies, processing staff field notes and lab samples, and environmental monitoring. Personally motivated to support sustainable use of our natural resources, reduce her carbon footprint and find joy in the simple things - Valerie loves camping locally in her vintage RV with her cats, thrift store treasure hunting, gardening and being outdoors in general.

• Vernon Office

Jennifer Brown, P.Eng., MEERL

Hydrogeologist

Jennifer is a professional engineer registered in BC, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut, but also has experience working in Alberta, Yukon, Ontario, Nevada, and Alaska. She has a Bachelor of Science in geological engineering – environmental, and a master’s degree in earth and energy resource leadership (MEERL) from Queen’s University. Jennifer enjoys working in both physical and environmental hydrogeology. Her general project experience is diverse and includes: Hydrogeological assessments for overburden, bedrock, karst and permafrost aquifers; Dewatering and groundwater depressurization; Regulatory permitting, water licence applications, and compliance reporting; Groundwater monitoring design and planning; Water supply exploration, design, and quality assessment; Environmental impact assessments; Water management and water balance forecasting; and Contaminated sites investigation and remediation. Jennifer has worked on research, environmental, hydrogeology, and hydrology projects for indigenous, municipal, and provincial/territorial governments, and with industry such as agriculture, development, mining, and oil and gas sectors. Jennifer is also the Okanagan Director for the BC Groundwater Association (BCGWA) – the Provincial water well driller, pump installer and groundwater professionals trade organization. She also volunteers with Engineers and Geoscientists British Columbia (EGBC) by reviewing applications from trainees to become professionals. Jennifer loves hiking, camping, kayaking, and exploring new places. She has travelled all Canadian provinces and territories, 21 US States, and more than 25 countries.

• Vernon Office

Jessica McCune, BIT

Junior Biologist

Jessica McCune is a Biologist In Training with the BC College of Applied Biology. She graduated from the University of British Columbia Okanagan, where she received a B.Sc. in Biology. Jessica is passionate about the study of aquatic biology, wildlife, water resources, and environmental protection. Jessica’s experience is centered around fish salvage, environmental monitoring, data collection, report writing, and working in remote locations. She enjoys both field work as well as office administration. Jessica has recently relocated from northern BC to Vernon and is looking forward summers full of hiking, camping, fishing, and spending time with her family and pets.

• Vernon Office

Avi Bains, GIT

Junior Hydrogeologist

• Vernon Office

Amanda Ross

Finance Manager and Office Administrator

Amanda joined Western Water Associates Ltd with more than twelve years of experience in all levels and areas of accounting; including many years of full charge bookkeeping, as well as experience as a Corporate/ Real Estate Legal assistant. Amanda is thoroughly knowledgeable in accounts payable, receivables, invoicing, payroll, HR, general ledger, journal entries, assets depreciation, taxes, month-end and year-end processes. Additionally she has solid experience working in the specialized accounting of multiple industries including construction, subcontracting, retail, medical, hospitality, consulting services and non-profits. Amanda is passionate about pursuing personal and professional development in every area possible. Now a Western Water partner and board member, Amanda has been here guiding the accounts as the company grew from three hydrogeologists to three offices of professionals.

• Vernon Office