Dr. Rick Sherwin tracking bats with radio telemetry at the Nevada Packard Mine. Photo by Brian Keeley
	Taking a punch for genetic analysis and attaching radio transmitters to a Townsend's big-eared bat.

OVERVIEW

As a conservation biologist, I believe strongly that the needs of wildlife and integrity of natural systems can be maintained, even in the face of burgeoning human populations and encroachment into natural areas.  I am dedicated to translating basic biological and ecological theory into broad application.

However, legitimate conservation can only be realized through education and interaction with the general public, government, and industry.  A portion of this education can be achieved in a formal classroom setting, in which those interested in biology can be provided with a strong foundation in biological  theory, application, critical thought, and communication skills.  Education outside of the classroom can best be achieved through involvement outside of academia, in more wide reaching forums such as the media and popular literature.  Finally, education of those in industry and government often involves direct interaction through research that has direct and tangible conservation value. 

RESEARCH PROGRAM
My ongoing research program is centered on the population ecology and conservation of Townsend’s big-eared bat (Corynorhinus townsendii).  This species provides a model system for pursuing my research interests for several reasons.  It is a species of conservation concern throughout its range, and its precarious status necessitates continued research in the development of data-driven conservation models. 

In addition, the active management of this species facilitates the development of working relationships between those in my research program and individuals in various resource management agencies.  I have found that this research is of tremendous educational benefit to students as it exposes them to a cross-disciplinary research team allowing them to interact with a wide range of participants including academics, state and federal governments, consultants,  private landowners,  industry representatives and the general public.  These collaborations allow me to maintain input in management decisions and assess the short and long-term impacts of these programs, ultimately providing data on the relative success of conservation  practices.

LABORATORY PRODUCTS > >

Jeff and Sam in New Mexico	Dr. Sherwin

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