Matt Daniels, PE
Matt Daniels, PEPrincipal Engineer
Matt grew up playing in the streams and ponds of the Hudson River Valley in upstate New York. Growing up, he observed the transformation of the Hudson River from a polluted waterbody, written off by the public, to a resilient tidal estuary with ecological diversity. Combined with Matt’s childhood exploits catching reptiles and amphibians on his family’s property, these experiences taught him the importance of connected aquatic and terrestrial habitats to support all life stages of species in the food web.

Following high school, Matt achieved a degree in civil engineering from Lehigh University knowing it would allow him to work in the field of water and environmental resources. However, it wasn’t until Matt began working as a river restoration engineer in Montana that he truly was able to reconnect with his childhood adventures and pursue his passion for restoring rivers.

Matt’s role at RDG has evolved over the years from technical responsibilities to project management and staff mentoring capacities. Although he still enjoys involvement with engineering tasks and construction oversight, his strength is working with people, whether it is clients, agencies, landowners or professional colleagues. Matt is a firm believer that RDG’s high quality projects along with responsiveness and dedication to clients are the reasons for RDG’s success.

“We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect.”

— Aldo Leopold

Matt spent seven months biking unsupported through South America.

Matt and his wife have two red-headed kids, apparently derived from recessive traits.

Matt has touched the Stanley Cup, thus cursing his future chances of an NHL championship.

Pleasant Valley, New York

Hudson River Estuary