Emerson Marsh is new Emergency Management Recovery Coordinator

ALBANY — Emerson Marsh, 31, is the new Linn County Emergency Management Recovery Coordinator, based at the Linn County Sheriff’s Office.

He will work with Emergency Manager Ric Lentz.

Marsh spent seven years in the Navy, serving as a hospital corpsman at Camp Pendleton, completed two tours of duty in Afghanistan and at a hospital in Spain.

Marsh grew up in Federal Way, Washington, and graduated from Decatur High School in Federal Way in 2009.

“I wasn’t sure about a career path and thought I would serve my country and then use the G.I. Bill,” Marsh said. “I enjoyed deploying. I liked the pace of it.”

He spent his first tour of duty at a field hospital and then helped train Afghans during his second tour. After his military discharge, Marsh earned a Bachelor’s Degree in biology and environmental science from Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff and a Master’s Degree in environmental policy and management from the University of Denver.

“I think my background and education will be great in this position,” Marsh said.

The position is funded by the Linn County Sheriff’s Office, Linn County Road Department and by a federal grant. It is a three-year program.

Marsh said he will focus on emergency communications systems and what was learned during the September 2020 wildfires, emergency planning and the natural hazards mitigation plan.

“I’m completing my FEMA training and trying to make as many connections as possible,” Marsh said.

Marsh and his wife, Genevieve, live in Albany.

They enjoy being outdoors and are excited by the many recreational opportunities available in the mid-valley.

“I’m really enjoying my job so far and am excited to see where this opportunity takes me,” Marsh said.

Media contact: Alex Paul, Linn County Communications Officer, 541-967-3825 or email apaul@co.linn.or.us.