I am Assistant Professor of Bison Biology and Management in the Department of Natural Resource Management at South Dakota State University in Rapid City. I grew up on a bison ranch in northwestern Wisconsin and have been working with bison in some form or another for more than 20 years.
My interest in bison is both practical and academic: I grew up on a working bison ranch and I have a formal education in geology, biology, paleontology, adaptation to abrupt climate change, and wildlife science. Each step along the way focused on bison ecology, evolution, and management. My research is focused on bison body size change in response to warming and increasing drought, including identifying the underlying mechanisms that limit growth. These characteristics influence population dynamics, ecology, and production. I strive to work with herd managers and practitioners, applying my unique background and skill set to the improved conservation and management of bison. I believe that connecting people with science is the key to improve stewardship, management, and conservation for wildlife and habitat on working and natural lands. I also strive to include stakeholders in the scientific process to identify and solve issues for producers, managers, and practitioners. |