Dr. Clifford N. Dahm, an internationally-recognized expert in aquatic ecology, biogeochemistry, climatology and restoration biology, has been appointed Lead Scientist for the CALFED Bay-Delta Program. In making the two-year appointment, Secretary for Resources Mike Chrisman said, “With his broad understanding of water-related science and strong interest in linking science and policy, Cliff will provide crucial scientific leadership for the CALFED Program and the Delta. His collaborative and open style will help policy makers integrate science into Delta decision making.

Dahm is a professor of biology at the University of New Mexico (UNM), where he began his academic career in 1984. Dahm emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to understanding aquatic ecosystems. He leads the Hydrogeoecology Research Group at UNM, studying aquatic ecology, interactions between stream and ground water, ways nutrients cycle through ecosystems, dissolved organic carbon in streams and riverine and riparian ecology.

In addition to heading the Hydrogeoecology Research group at UNM, Dahm’s current scientific leadership roles include director of the Freshwater Sciences Interdisciplinary Doctoral Program, and co-principal investigator of the Sevilleta Long-Term Ecological Research Program. Dahm recently completed a term as president of the North American Benthological Society, the premier national and international stream and river professional society. He is a member of the Science Steering Group for the Global Water Budget Program of the U.S. Global Change Research Program.