Jack Schmidt

Jack Schmidt is a Professor at Utah State University and Director of the Center for Colorado River Studies within the Quinney College of Natural Resources. With nearly four decades of experience, he is a leading expert in river science, focusing primarily on the Colorado River, its tributaries, and the Grand Canyon. His research explores the complex relationship between ecosystem health and the impacts of dams, reservoirs, and water diversions.

A former chief of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Grand Canyon Monitoring and Research Center, Dr. Schmidt has played a pivotal role in shaping our understanding of river management in the American Southwest. Under his leadership, the Center for Colorado River Studies advances innovative research, education, and outreach to support informed decision-making and sustainable management of major river systems.

To learn more about Jack and his work, please visit: https://www.colorado.edu/center/gwc/john-jack-schmidt.