Bethany Wager
Graduate Student | Department of Applied Ecology | North Carolina State University
2022 – 2023 Global Change Fellow
Statement of purpose:
I am a first year Ph.D. student in the Applied Ecology department working with Dr. Jeff Buckel. My research interests lie within fisheries ecology, specifically how movement patterns and habitat use of marine fishes might impact our management plans. During my undergraduate years at West Virginia University (WVU), I conducted Brook Trout research in headwater streams of Appalachia. I enjoyed the scientific process and working to conserve a native fish species sought after by many recreational anglers. After my first year at WVU, I had the incredible opportunity to go on a deep-sea fishing trip off the coast of the Outer Banks of North Carolina. These experiences inspired me to dedicate my career to conserving and sustainably managing marine life. I hope to understand and predict changes in coastal fisheries, share that knowledge with others, and play a part in the conservation and management of marine ecosystems and resources for future generations.
Description of research:
I am interested in fisheries ecology, but plan to study movement patterns and habitat use of marine fishes specifically. I want to tackle questions about why distributions of fishes vary over time and how to incorporate this into management plans. These questions can often be addressed by looking at environmental variables being influenced by climate change. By better understanding our fisheries, we can make recommendations to ensure these resources are available for both recreational and commercial anglers for years to come.
Contact Information:
Email: bwager@ncsu.edu
Faculty Advisor:
Jeffrey Buckel (Department of Applied Ecology, NCSU)