Sally Petrella has been inspiring Rouge River residents to become stewards of the Rouge River watershed for over twenty years, sharing her knowledge of the natural world and passion for its restoration.
As Watershed Ecologist, Sally advises the Monitoring Programs in the collection of biological data including benthic macroinvertebrates, calling amphibians, fish, invasive species, chloride and culvert inventories. She collaborates with local, state, and national agencies to collect the data needed to assess and guide the restoration of this degraded urban river. Through her leadership, FOTR volunteers have collected a wealth of data on the watershed and its inhabitants, documenting rare and listed species as well as invasive species. As water quality improved in the Rouge River, Petrella initiated the development of a water trail as a way to engage residents with the river and build support for its restoration that is currently being developed with a full time Water Trail Manager. She works to restore the watershed including recent initiatives to develop partnerships to conserve land along the river.
Growing up in southeast Michigan near the Rouge River, Petrella has always had a strong connection to the natural environment, Detroit, and a commitment to improving it for all. She and her husband are active in improving their neighborhood park – Rouge Park in Detroit. They spend their free time gardening, backpacking, and paddling. Petrella holds a master’s degree in biology from the University of Michigan.