Klaus Moeltner

Klaus Moeltner is a Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics at Virginia Tech since 2015. He previously held positions at the University of Nevada, Reno, including Associate and Assistant Professor roles. His expertise lies in environmental economics, natural resource valuation, and applied econometrics. He has secured over $6 million in grants as PI or Co-PI and contributes to interdisciplinary research through the Global Change Center and Remote Sensing Program at Virginia Tech.

Education:

• Ph.D., Economics, University of Washington, 2000
• M.A., Economics, University of Washington, 1998
• M.A., International Policy Studies, Monterey Institute of International Studies, 1994
• M.S., Environmental Planning & Engineering, University of Agriculture and Forestry, Vienna, Austria, 1990

Research Interests: Dr. Moeltner’s work focuses on environmental and natural resource economics, including water quality valuation, wildfire health impacts, urban water use, and coastal flooding risks. His research employs advanced econometric methods, such as Bayesian modeling and meta-regression, to inform policy decisions. Current projects include analyzing the economic benefits of stream restoration, harmful algal bloom forecasts, and offshore wind farm co-location opportunities.

Awards:

• 2023: Distinguished Graduate Teaching Award (AAEA)
• 2014: Best Paper in Environmental and Resource Economics (EAERE)
• 2004: CABNR Outstanding Instructor Award

Advising & Grants: Advised 6 Ph.D. students and secured over $6 million in grants. Research collaborations include USDA-NIFA, EPA, and the European Union.

Labs & Teams: Active in interdisciplinary groups like the Global Change Center and Remote Sensing Program at Virginia Tech.