This week, we celebrate Anita Smyth’s 15-year anniversary as a Senior Wetland Scientist with Winterbrook Planning! As a wetland scientist, Anita plays a crucial role in guiding projects through wetland and waterway permitting. Her work ensures a balance between environmental protection and responsible development.

Her expertise in Oregon Land Use Planning Goal 5 have made a lasting impact.

Pettit Reservoir Park & Trail System

Over the past year, Anita has been instrumental in the Pettit Reservoir Park & Trail System project in Silverton. Named after astronaut Don Pettit, this reservoir—located just south of the Oregon Garden—was acquired by the city to transform into a public park.

The project involved designing a trail system that:

• Navigates steep slopes
• Winds past treatment ponds
• Forms a scenic loop around the reservoir

Anita collaborated with NV5 to minimize the project’s impact on Brush Creek, its wetlands, and the surrounding environment. The team incorporated a boardwalk system, allowing for simpler permitting and less environmental disturbance than traditional trail construction. Her expertise helped create a park that prioritizes ecological preservation while enhancing community access.

More of her wetland scientist expertise was recently showcased in Winterbrook’s work at Tigard’s Tree Groves, where she led site visits and wetland delineation efforts. She’s also been instrumental in educating others about wetlands, most recently at our Understanding Wetlands Lunch & Learn and in our World Wetlands Day feature, where we highlighted her contributions to the field.

Thanks for all you do Anita!