Chuck Sutherland

Joined: Jan 5, 2016 Last Active: Mar 28, 2024 iNaturalist

Geographer, photographer, caver.


I want to thank anyone who provides an ID. I do my best to get a reasonably good identification before coming here (most of the time).


I am a professional geographer specializing in GIS software and data. I am currently employed at the Tennessee State Fire Marshal’s Office as a Fire Prevention Geospatial Analyst. My responsibilities include managing and enhancing data collection systems, and performing analysis. Additionally, I oversee grant processes that aid volunteer fire departments and rescue squads.

I also work part time as an adjunct professor at Tennessee Tech University, where I teach Theory of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) I and II.

I enjoy photography and I am particularly interested in photographing natural phenomena from weather, to flora and fauna, to geology and landforms such as caves, waterfalls, and natural arches, as well as historic and prehistoric cultural resources. My work has appeared in a variety of mediums, including academic journals, music videos, news outlets, books, magazines, and websites with such well known names as The New York Times, BBC and the Discovery Channel having utilized my photography. I have a large archive of photographs of the southeast, which are easily searchable. If you are interested in using a specific photo, please don't hesitate to ask.

I also enjoy caving. I think of it as the most accessible form of "frontier exploration." It is a way to see the Earth from the inside out. Rocks and water have stories to tell. Like a detective, the curious can tease out their stories by carefully reading clues.

While I enjoy photography and caving, my true passion lies in inspiring others to take an interest in science. As a hobbyist citizen scientist, I have had the privilege of utilizing my skills in geography, photography, and caving to collaborate with scientists on remarkable projects.

View All