Abstract
Field Research & Conservation emphasizes long-term field research experiences, examines ecosystem processes, and investigates the evolution of American perspectives about nature. Our time spent at the UW-NPS research station is divided between pursuing behavioral ecology research and exploring Grand Teton National Park and the surrounding area. These experiences help students gain understanding of how the region was shaped by geological, biological, and political processes that have been influenced by Americaâs evolving conservation ethic. After the summer field experience, my students assist in data analysis and the development of a poster project. We present our findings at the Phi Sigma Research Symposium at Illinois State University and the St. Louis Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation Retreat at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.