PROJECTS & RESEARCH
Ecosystem-scale impacts of beaver activity
Lead Researcher
Research focusing on the large-scale impacts to ecosystems when beaver ponds are formed. Special focus on bat, anuran, and avian species richness and habitat use, water quality impacts, and analysis of water temperature changes.
Research sites cover 3 counties and 5 sub-watersheds.
Beaver Activity in Western Wisconsin Watersheds
Research Mentor
Working with undergraduate students on their Capstone course analyzing field data collection and internet research to investigate beaver activity on streams in western Wisconsin.
This work will build on the beaver and control research sites I have collected for my thesis research and will further inform our project by characterizing the current beaver impoundments and historical beaver-created wetlands at these sites.
State Floodplain Policy, Media, and Technical Analysis
Graduate Intern, Wisconsin Wetlands Association
In depth analysis of policy, regulatory, and infrastructure plans for floodplain management and projects. Special focus was given to floodplain restoration projects, technical and online assistance, and state-generated community programs, training, and guidelines.
State-by-State Comparison of Floodplain and Riparian Policies
Graduate Intern, Wisconsin Wetlands Association
Targeted, detailed analysis of 12 state's policies, regulations, management plans, and implemented projects related to flood management/mitigation, riparian habitat conservation and development, as well as floodplain-specific policies, projects, and management practices.
Additional analysis of state assistance practices, educational material availability, and FEMA-related floodplain regulations
State Transportation and Hydrologic Restoration Assessments
Research Specialist, Wisconsin Wetlands Association
Multi-state analysis of transportation projects that intersect with wetlands and rivers. From large-scale to small, local projects, the goal is to review successful projects that merge resilient infrastructure with hydrologic restoration practices.
Coming Soon: Beavers as a habitat restoration tool for American Woodcock
Beaver Scientist
A habitat restoration project that will utilize beavers to provide disturbance to remote habitats. These beaver-driven changes should serve to support both residential and migratory woodcock populations on the East Coast. If successful, this work would serve as proof of concept in using beavers as restoration and habitat partners for upland game species/
