As an ecohydrologist, Mr. Kelty performs a combination of technical project analysis and field work for cbec. He supports his findings with analytical output from ArcMap, ArcGIS Pro, AutoCAD Civil 3D, HEC-HMS, MATLAB, and the coastal modeling program, XBeach. Mr. Kelty is a key hydraulic 1D-2D modeler, investigating floodplain connectivity opportunities, fish passage and habitat availability analyses, restoration alternatives, and ecological and flood protection enhancements on various projects. He also supports ongoing surface flow measurement and gage maintenance efforts for multiple surface water monitoring projects. Mr. Kelty is well versed in low flow (wading with Acoustic Doppler Velocimeter) and high flow (trimaran or boat mounted Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler) techniques, consistent with USGS measurement standards.

His innate curiosity for improving natural environments led him to Purdue University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Agricultural and Biological Engineering, with a focus in Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering. During this time, Kiernan gained valuable field experience conducting topography and stream cross section site surveys. Kiernan continued his studies at Oregon State University, where he completed his Master of Science in Civil Engineering, with a focus in Coastal and Ocean Engineering. His Master’s thesis investigated the feasibility of using mangroves for coastal hazard mitigation. The project was funded by the National Science Foundation and Natural Hazards Engineering Research Institute, and was the first full scale physical model experiment of a mangrove forest in the world. Kiernan expanded his coastal expertise through course work on seaside geomorphology and hazards, sediment transport, natural and nature-based features design, and wave mechanics. In his spare time as a staff member as cbec’s Santa Cruz location, Kiernan enjoys surfing, backpacking, and discovering all that the waterfront city has to offer.