Arleen O'Donnell

Arleen O'Donnell

Vice President

I cherish the connection with nature I feel from the strength of the ocean, the run of a river, the serenity of a lake, the intensity of estuaries, and the magic of vernal pools. It’s from this sense of appreciation that I apply my knowledge, experience, and passion to protect and restore the ecological integrity of water resources.


As an ERG vice president, Arleen has developed and led ERG’s natural resource management practice since 2008, and has led contracts with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and, most recently, the Scripps Institution of Oceanography Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes (CW3E). Her current work focuses on improving resilience to droughts and floods by working in partnership with researchers and water managers to apply cutting-edge forecasting methods to optimize flood control, water supply, and ecological benefits. She is also supporting the California Department of Water Resources and CW3E to ensure that improved atmospheric river forecast tools are used to better manage floods, and to communicate the science and impacts of atmospheric rivers to foster better understanding of these important meteorological events.

Arleen holds a B.S. in biology and environmental science from the University of Massachusetts and an M.S. in civil engineering and urban/environmental policy from Tufts University.  She enjoys bicycling, cross-country skiing, snorkeling, gardening, birding, and wineries.