Michael Quist

Michael Quist is a Professor of Fisheries Management and Assistant Unit Leader at the Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, University of Idaho. He holds a Ph.D. (2002) and M.S. (1999) from Kansas State University, and a B.S. (1996) from the University of Idaho. His research focuses on fisheries management, applied fish ecology, and population dynamics of native and nonnative species in river, lake, and reservoir ecosystems.

Key research areas include:

• Evaluation of population dynamics and management strategies for sturgeon, trout, and bass species.
• Effects of invasive species on native fish communities and ecosystem function.
• Development of age and growth estimation techniques using otoliths and fin rays.
• Assessment of catch-and-release practices and angler impacts on fish populations.
• Ecological modeling to inform fisheries management decisions.

His work integrates field studies, experimental approaches, and ecological modeling to address both basic and applied questions. Recent projects include evaluations of White Sturgeon management in the Snake River and Sacramento-San Joaquin Basin, suppression strategies for invasive species, and the impacts of environmental factors on fish growth and distribution.

Michael Quist collaborates with state and federal agencies to translate research into actionable management strategies. His lab is part of the Idaho Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, emphasizing applied research with direct conservation and management relevance.