Gwen Macdonald is nature-based solutions senior project manager at Stantec and an experienced ecosystem restoration practitioner and leader, specializing in nature-based solutions, river restoration, and aquatic connectivity. With over 17 years of hands-on experience, Gwen has managed complex restoration projects both locally and internationally, including supporting and administering dam removal and fish passage programs across 30 countries in greater Europe. Her expertise includes dam removal, marsh restoration, watershed planning, and green infrastructure, with a strong focus on reconnecting aquatic habitats and improving fish passage. As the former director of Ecological Restoration at Save the Sound, Gwen managed the Strong Pond Dam Removal Project in Wilton, Connecticut, designed by Stantec. The primary objective of the project was to restore anadromous fish passage to the Norwalk River, building on the removal of Flock Process Dam in Norwalk, Connecticut. Stantec is currently working with Trout Unlimited to remove the next barrier on the Norwalk River, Cannondale Dam in Wilton, Connecticut.
Engineering With Nature® is the intentional alignment of natural and engineering processes to efficiently and effectively deliver economic, ecological, and social benefits through collaboration.