Tom Ries

Thomas Ries is an accomplished environmental professional with extensive experience in habitat restoration and ecological management. Since February 2003, Thomas has served as the Founder and Board President of ECOSPHERE RESTORATION INSTITUTE INC, a non-profit organization focused on habitat restoration and protection in the Southeastern United States, emphasizing public-private partnerships. Prior to this role, Thomas held significant positions, including Vice President and Habitat Restoration Director at Environmental Science Associates from May 2017 to December 2022, and Owner and Vice President at Scheda Ecological Associates, Inc. from February 1997 to April 2017. Thomas also contributed to the Southwest Florida Water Management District as a Senior Scientist for the SWIM Program, where responsibilities included habitat restoration and stormwater management. Early in the career, positions were held as a Boat Captain at Slip Away Charters, Biologist/photo-interpreter at Martel Geonex, and Biologist at Parsons Brinckerhoff. Thomas holds a Bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of South Florida.