Dennis Albert

Dennis Albert is an Assistant Professor/Senior Researcher in the Department of Horticulture at Oregon State University (since 2009). He holds a courtesy appointment in Agricultural & Life Sciences and is affiliated with the Oak Creek Center for Urban Horticulture. His career includes roles such as Senior Research Ecologist at Michigan Natural Features Inventory and Director of the Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center. Albert earned a Ph.D. in Forest Ecology from the University of Michigan (1990), following an M.S. (1983) and B.S. (1981) in similar fields.

His research focuses on ecosystem classification, wetland ecology, and invasive species management. Key areas include Great Lakes coastal wetlands, plant community dynamics, and restoration strategies. Notable projects include developing ecoregional classifications for Michigan and multi-state collaborations for wetland mapping. He has contributed to publications like the Atlas of Early Michigan’s Forests and the Flora of Oregon.

Albert’s work emphasizes practical applications such as invasive species control (e.g., Typha spp. harvesting) and public education through high school curricula and tribal collaboration. His outreach includes promoting native plant markets and training programs for wetland professionals. Current projects span Oregon’s Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge and Michigan’s Saginaw Bay wetlands, funded by agencies like the EPA and Oregon Department of Agriculture.