Meet our new Seasonal River Steward: Hughes Gilbert

As you can imagine, summer is a busy season for us here at Vermont River Conservancy! That’s why we are so thrilled to introduce you to our 2025 River Steward, Hughes Gilbert.

Hughes will be a friendly face out in the field, helping us get all of the important work done on the ground. You may see Amanda, Stewardship Manager and Hughes out in the field installing our many new kiosk signs at different river access points!

Hughes Gilbert, Seasonal River Steward

Hughes Gilbert, Seasonal River Steward.

Hughes joined Vermont River Conservancy as a River Steward in 2025. A native of East Montpelier, he grew up spending time outside in the Green Mountains and on Lake Champlain, developing a lifelong appreciation for the outdoors. He is currently a sophomore at Middlebury College studying environmental science on the pre-med track, with particular interest in wilderness medicine, stream and forest ecology.

At VRC, Hughes supports river stewardship across conserved sites and public access areas throughout Vermont. He helps maintain healthy ecosystems and ensure that rivers remain open and welcoming to all who wish to enjoy them. His previous work with the Montpelier Youth Conservation Corps included trail building, invasive species management, community outreach, and no-till farming, all of which shaped his commitment to conservation and public access.

Hughes is currently section hiking the Long Trail with hopes of completing a thru-hike in the future. In his free time, he enjoys fly fishing, rock climbing, backpacking, and backcountry skiing.