Leslie Marie Burger

Dr. Leslie Marie Burger is an Associate Teaching Professor at Mississippi State University's College of Forest Resources, serving as the WFA Undergraduate Coordinator and Conservation Education Graduate Coordinator. She holds a PhD in Forest Resources from MSU, an MA in Biological Sciences from the University of Missouri, and a BS in Wildlife Biology from Murray State University. Her research focuses on conservation education, undergraduate research impact, watershed management, and wildlife habitat ecology. She has led numerous extension programs including Mississippi 4-H curricula and water stewardship initiatives.

Her publications span topics like diversity in STEM education, water quality, and beaver habitat modeling. She has received over 25 awards for extension programming, teaching, and conservation innovation, including the Dr. Bruce Leopold Award and the EPA Gulf of Mexico Spirit of Excellence Award. Burger is actively involved in professional organizations like The Wildlife Society and the Mississippi Environmental Education Alliance.

Key contributions include developing youth-focused environmental education programs and advancing conservation practices in private lands. Her work bridges academic research with community engagement, emphasizing hands-on learning through initiatives like the Wildlife Habitat Education Program and Bioblitz events.