Professor of Biology

Education--
BS, Baylor Univeristy
MS, Baylor University
Ph.D., University of Maryland

Major area of research--Wetland Ecology

Courses currently teaching--
Wetland Ecology (Bio 5404)
Restoration Ecology (4381)
Bio 1306

Biography

I grew up 1000 miles up the Amazon River in the city of Manaus where my parents were Southern Baptist missionaries. I was educated in the Brazilian school system and home-schooled by my parents in subjects not taught in Brazilian schools (US history, English grammar, etc). I'm sure that growing up surrounded by so much water and jungle directed me at an early age towards a life as a wetland ecologist.

As a wetland ecologist, I spend much of my time in the field. In fact, my wife usually introduces me as a "mudmucker!" My research focuses on the role of vascular aquatic plants on the structure and function of shallow aquatic ecosystems. My research includes controlled experimental studies at various scales including laboratory,mesocosm (outdoor tanks) and field.Specific areas of research include a) the impacts of exotic species on the ecosystem, b) physical, chemical and biological control options for exotic species, c) restoration of aquatic ecosystems, d) water quality and habitat benefits of created wetlands, e) impacts of light, turbidity and/or inorganic carbon on plant growth, f) impacts of disturbance (flood, drought, etc) on aquatic macrophytes communities, and g) nitrogen and carbon cycling in reservoir systems. I have several graduate and undergraduate students working (well, okay, not really working-more like having fun!) on various aspects of aquatic ecology.

I teach undergraduate/graduate level courses in various areas of ecology. My courses are very field oriented (what do you expect from a mudmucker?) and often include individual or group research projects.