Spotlight on Sam Guffey: Science, Strategy, and Natural Resources

Meet Sam Guffey

ASTI Environmental would like to introduce Sam Guffey, PMP, FP-C, our Ecological Project Manager. Based in the Grand Rapids and West Michigan lakeshore region, Sam supports a portfolio of projects throughout Michigan and beyond.

Sam is both a Certified Fisheries Professional and Project Management Professional. He is an active member of the Michigan Chapter of the American Fisheries Society, where he serves on the Rivers and Streams committee and chairs the Water Quality Committee. He is also involved with the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association and the Michigan Wetlands Association.

To learn more about Sam’s background and experience, we caught up with him to discuss his career and the work he supports at ASTI Environmental.

A Career Built Around Natural Resources

Sam brings more than 15 years of experience in environmental science, ecological consulting, capital project delivery, habitat assessments, wetland delineation, and environmental permitting. Throughout his career, he has supported public and private sector clients with the evaluation and management of natural resources, helping projects align with environmental regulations and broader program objectives.

His expertise includes ecological evaluations involving wetlands, waterways, coastal environments, and other sensitive habitats. His work has encompassed wetland delineations, permitting support, environmental impact assessments, stream restoration and relocation planning, ecological restoration efforts, site evaluations, and design guidance for projects involving natural resource impacts.

Leading Complex Environmental Projects

Over the course of his career, Sam has managed complex, multi-year environmental projects, including multi-million-dollar efforts involving teams ranging from two to more than 100 staff members. His work focuses on balancing project goals with environmental stewardship while helping clients navigate local, state, and federal requirements.

His field experience includes limnological studies, fish and aquatic species sampling, sediment and water quality investigations, biological assessments, and habitat evaluations involving sensitive ecosystems and rare species. He is also an experienced boat operator and research diver, providing valuable hands-on expertise during field investigations and restoration initiatives.

Beyond field work and project management, Sam has a strong scientific background in biology, ecotoxicology, physiology, and environmental chemistry. He has also authored 17 peer-reviewed publications throughout his career.

Bringing Science and Strategy Together

One of Sam’s strengths is helping project teams understand ecological considerations early in the planning process. Drawing on experience across Michigan, throughout the United States, and internationally, he works closely with clients, regulators, engineers, and stakeholders to identify challenges, evaluate opportunities, and support informed decision making.

Whether conducting field investigations, guiding permitting strategies, or managing multidisciplinary teams, Sam brings a practical and science-based approach to every project. His experience and leadership continue to strengthen ASTI Environmental’ s ability to help clients responsibly navigate complex environmental challenges.