Karlee Cork,Riparian Specialist, Partner Biologist Pheasants Forever, Inc. and Quail Forever | NRCS | Arizona Game & Fish Department
I started my position in May of 2019 and it represents a partnership between PFQF, NRCS, and the Arizona Game and Fish Department. I will be focused on enhancing and restoring sensitive riparian (stream and lakeside) habitat on working lands throughout the state while using the Working Lands For Wildlife NRCS program. This program was broken down to focus on species that inhabit our critical areas. In Arizona, our focal species is the endangered Southwestern Willow Flycatcher.
Because riparian areas are so important in arid areas we can use this flagship species to improve habitat for a whole host of different species. Common resource concerns in this area include invasive plants (Salt Cedar, Russian Olive, etc.), poor water quality, and drought.
BIO: I am originally from North Eastern Nevada, and spent my childhood fishing, camping, and hiking. I obtained my Bachelors Degree in wildlife management and ecology from the University of Nevada, Reno. I was a field biologist for a few years working with avian species (mostly upland game birds) and reptiles. I obtained my Master’s Degree in range and wildlife management from a small university in South West Texas: Sul Ross State University. For my thesis, I studied habitat selection of Mearns Quail in central New Mexico.
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