Janean Creighton

Janean Creighton is an Associate Professor and Director of the Master of Natural Resources (MNR) Program at Oregon State University's College of Forestry, Department of Forest Ecosystems & Society. She holds a Ph.D. in Natural Resources and Environment (2005) and M.S. in Wildlife Biology (1996) from Washington State University, along with a B.A. in Theater Arts from Cornish Institute of the Arts (1983). Her research focuses on science communication for natural resource management, consensus building in decision-making, and understanding family forest owners' needs.

Creighton's work bridges social science and natural resources, addressing topics like climate change adaptation strategies, land succession dynamics, and wildfire management. She has contributed to USDA climate vulnerability assessments and collaborates widely with stakeholders on policy implementation. Her teaching includes courses on sustainable development, consensus processes in natural resources, and decision-making frameworks.

• Program Leadership: MNR Program Director since appointment
• Key Research Areas: Human dimensions of natural resources, policy analysis, and community engagement
• Collaborations: Involvement with USDA Climate Hubs and interdisciplinary fire science networks

Her publications emphasize practical solutions for landowners, educators, and policymakers through evidence-based strategies. Advising focuses on graduate students like Jackie Barry, with a strong emphasis on applied research impacting real-world resource management challenges.