Endangered species, predator/prey interactions, strategies for conservation
Successful resolution of wildlife conservation problems requires knowledge of ecology and of the social context in which the problem exists. Our research group has focused on an endangered species, the wolf, in northwestern Montana. We have surveyed the local publics to determine their concerns regarding wolf recovery and, through a series of graduate student research projects, have addressed these concerns. We transfer information back to the public through numerous presentations and through newspaper and magazine articles, and to the scientific community through publications in scientific journals. We have worked and are working on issues with lynx and wolverine.
Our research program on large mammals in Qinghai Province, People's Republic of China, has focused on applied conservation problems there. Wildlife must have a value greater than just protein to continue to exist, especially in highly-populated, developing countries. Funded through an endowment from the Robert M. Lee Foundation, we have focused on ways in which local people can receive benefits from conserving wildlife sufficient to sustain wildlife and the habitats upon which they depend. Wildlife conservation focused solely on public lands is doomed to failure. The Boone & Crockett Wildlife Conservation Program attempts to integrate wildlife conservation and private land management. This program, focused on the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Ranch near Dupuyer, has research, education and demonstration functions. I have worked with the Boone and Crockett Professors to develop this program
