Spencer grew up running wild in the temperate rainforests of Western Washington. His first exposure to river restoration came in the years following the removal of two dams on the Elwha River – a monumental achievement for river restoration and a watershed that occupies a special place in Spencer’s heart.
A childhood and early adulthood spent outside led Spencer to pursue a degree in environmental studies, as well as an early career in outdoor and experiential education. Spencer has worked as an educator and backcountry guide in a variety of settings including most recently at the High Mountain Institute in Leadville, Colorado.
While attending the Claremont Colleges, Spencer became deeply invested in the water systems of California and in the fight to protect and restore ecologically critical watersheds. Spencer graduated with a B.A. in Environmental Policy from Pitzer College with a focus on California water history.
Spencer joined Friends of the River in the Spring of 2025 as River Operations Coordinator and is excited to combine his passions for effective public policy and outdoor programming.