Ashley Moerke

Ashley Moerke is a Professor and Dean of the College of Great Lakes Ecology & Education at Lake Superior State University (LSSU), concurrently serving as Executive Director of the Center for Freshwater Research & Education (CFRE). Her academic career spans roles in freshwater ecology, fisheries management, and environmental policy. She holds a BS from the University of Minnesota Duluth (1996), MS (2000) and PhD (2004) from the University of Notre Dame.

Her research focuses on Great Lakes ecosystems, restoration ecology, and aquatic biodiversity. Key areas include salmonid conservation, freshwater mussel restoration, stream habitat rehabilitation, and the ecological impacts of human activities. She leads initiatives in satellite remote sensing applications for freshwater management and integrates fieldwork with policy advocacy for sustainable resource use.

Moerke’s publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to environmental challenges, such as rapids habitat restoration, microplastic effects on fish microbiomes, and the role of Pacific salmon in nutrient cycles. Her work bridges academic research with applied conservation, collaborating with agencies like the US Fish & Wildlife Service and tribal organizations. Current projects include large-scale monitoring programs for Great Lakes shorelines and St. Marys River sturgeon populations.

Her research portfolio spans 25+ years, with over 50 peer-reviewed articles on freshwater ecosystems. She advises state and federal agencies on aquatic resource management and advocates for science-informed policy frameworks to address climate change and invasive species threats.