Entreement®

A page of videos and images of Jim Sedell

James R. Sedell was a renowned aquatic ecologist and river scientist who contributed significantly to understanding stream and river ecosystems, particularly in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. Here’s a brief and incomplete overview of his career and contributions:

Career: Sedell spent much of his career with the U.S. Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station. He also held positions at Oregon State University.

Research focus: His work primarily focused on river ecology, riparian zones, and the interactions between forests and aquatic ecosystems.

River Continuum Concept: Sedell was one of the key contributors to the development of the River Continuum Concept, a fundamental theory in stream ecology that describes how biological communities change along the length of a river.

Large wood in rivers: He was instrumental in changing perceptions about the role of large wood (fallen trees) in river ecosystems. His work helped demonstrate the ecological importance of woody debris in streams for fish habitat and overall river health.

Riparian zone management: Sedell’s research significantly influenced forest management practices, particularly regarding protecting and managing riparian zones.

Ecosystem restoration: He was involved in numerous projects and studies focused on river and stream restoration, helping to develop science-based approaches to rehabilitating degraded aquatic ecosystems.

International work: While much of his research was centered in the Pacific Northwest, Sedell also conducted studies and consulted on international river management issues.

Publications: He authored or co-authored numerous scientific papers, book chapters, and reports throughout his career, many of which are widely cited in aquatic ecology.

Collaboration: Sedell was known for his collaborative approach, often working with scientists from various disciplines, land managers, and policymakers.

Legacy: His work has had a lasting impact on river ecology and has influenced both scientific understanding and management practices related to river systems and their associated terrestrial environments.

James R. Sedell passed away in 2012, but his contributions to river science and ecology continue influencing research and management practices in aquatic ecosystems. His work helped to bridge the gap between forest and stream management, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these systems.

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Excerpts from the Tree Planting Ceremony at Jim’s Memorial at the World Forestry Center in Portland, Oregon

A conversation in the trees
In 2002, canopy scientist Steve Sillett took Jim Sedell, Fred Swanson, Thomas Dunklin, and Michael Furniss up to a platform at 55 meters in the canopy of a large PSME in the Mack Creek watershed on the HJ Andrews Forest for a conversation. Here is an edited version, featuring the remarkable insights of the timeless Dr. Jim Sedell.

Reunions of the River Continuum Crew: at NABS 2002 and in Berkeley 2005. Sessions organized by Jim Sedell and Vince Resh

Karen Bennett interviews Jim at the HJ Andrews Ideas Jam:
“Exploring the Meaning of Watershed Health” in October, 2006. Filmed and produced by MJ Furniss

Jim being interviewed at Mount St. Helens at the
“Geographies of Destruction and Hope” event, July 2005

Jim Sedell interview at the
“New Metaphors of Restoration” ideas jam at the HJ Andrews, 2001

Jim Sedell’s testimony at the 1993 Forest Conference

Jim commissioned and produced this short rhapsody on water and watersheds during the time he created and oversaw the “Large Watershed Restoration” work across the National Forests