As a retired environmental scientist I am fascinated by the complex beauty of nature. I create photographic collections to show the raw, messy, and inspiring connections of flora, fauna, and the landscapes we find them in. As a board member for the Portland Photographers' Forum I have had the opportunity to contribute to creating two collections of photographs and essays by our many talented members: Closing Doors, Opening Windows (2020), and A Break in the Clouds (2021). I've also completed two books on the Columbia River Estuary: A Photographic Journey through the Columbia River Estuary, and There and Back Again, A Portrait of Salmon Restoration in the Columbia River Estuary. Both can be found on my website: www.patwelle.com.