Kevin Masarik

Kevin Masarik serves as Director of the Center for Watershed Science and Education (a partnership between University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and UW-Madison Division of Extension) and Assistant Professor of Fisheries and Water Resources in the College of Natural Resources at UW-Stevens Point.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Environment and Resources from University of Wisconsin-Madison
• MS in Soil Science from University of Wisconsin-Madison
• BS in Water Resources with Chemistry minor from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

Dr. Masarik's research focuses on groundwater and drinking water quality for rural well systems, examining agricultural land use impacts, geologic contaminant sources, and data-driven water management. His work bridges hydrogeology, environmental chemistry, and public health with practical applications for Wisconsin communities. Recent publications emphasize nitrate dynamics and emerging contaminants like PFAS, utilizing field monitoring and spatial analysis to address agricultural pollution sources.

His publication trends reveal consistent investigation of groundwater contamination mechanisms across 15+ years, with increasing focus on anthropogenic pollutants (PFAS, nitrate) in agricultural regions. Methodologies integrate hydrogeological modeling, water chemistry analysis, and spatial/temporal monitoring to inform water safety policies.

As Director, Dr. Masarik leads the Water & Environmental Analysis Lab (WEAL) and Groundwater Center programs, which provide well testing services, educational workshops, and the WI Well Water Quality Viewer platform. These initiatives support Wisconsin residents through private well education, nitrate trend networks, and watershed monitoring services.