Leadership

Bethany Neilson, UWRL Director

Bethany Neilson

Director
Utah Water Research Laboratory

Bethany Neilson is the director of the Utah Water Research Laboratory and a professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Utah State University. Her research focuses on water resources management, hydrology, and environmental systems, with an emphasis on understanding and improving water availability and quality across diverse landscapes. 

As director, she leads the UWRL in advancing interdisciplinary water research, fostering collaboration among faculty, students, and diverse state and federal partners to address critical challenges in water management, quality, and infrastructure. Dr. Neilson is dedicated to supporting innovative research, student training, and community engagement that contribute to sustainable water solutions in Utah and beyond. 

Steven Barfuss, Utah State University

Steven Barfuss

Jeffery Horsburgh, Utah State University

Jeffery Horsburgh

Associate Directors

Utah Water Research Laboratory associate directors lead the UWRL in the director's absence and provide additional guidance and support. 

Additional UWRL Leadership

Cathi Allen, Business Manager

Cathi Allen

Business Manager

Carri Richards, PR Specialist

Carri Richards

Public Relations Specialist

Joan McLean, EQL Laboratory Manager

Joan McLean

Environmental Quality Laboratory Manager

Zac Sharp, Hydraulics Laboratory Manager

Zac Sharp

Hydraulics Laboratory Manager