Michael Conover

Michael Conover is a Professor in the Wildland Resources department within the College of Natural Resources at Utah State University. He maintains an active research program focused on wildlife management, human-wildlife conflicts, and behavioral ecology, with particular emphasis on waterfowl ecology and Great Salt Lake ecosystems. His office is located in BNR 159, and he can be reached at (435) 797-2436 or mike.conover@usu.edu.

Professor Conover's research spans multiple areas of wildlife ecology and management, with particular expertise in human-wildlife conflict resolution, waterfowl behavior, and Great Salt Lake ecosystems. His work examines the complex interactions between wildlife and human activities, developing practical solutions for managing wildlife damage while maintaining healthy populations. He has conducted extensive research on Canada geese behavior, including mating systems, reproductive ecology, and urban adaptation. His studies on Great Salt Lake waterfowl, particularly eared grebes and phalaropes, investigate critical habitat needs, migration patterns, and the impacts of environmental changes on these sensitive species.

Analysis of Professor Conover's recent publications reveals consistent focus on Great Salt Lake ecosystems, waterfowl ecology, and human-wildlife conflict management. His work demonstrates strong interdisciplinary approaches, combining field ecology with practical management applications. The recurring themes include behavioral adaptations of wildlife to changing environments, quantitative assessment of habitat needs, and development of evidence-based management strategies for wildlife conflicts.

Professor Conover has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career:

• Best Authored Book Award (2023, The Wildlife Society)
• Inducted into Old Main Society (2022, Utah State University)
• Caesar Kleberg Lifetime Research Award (2010, The Wildlife Society)
• Fellow of The Wildlife Society (2008)
• Researcher of the Year, College of Natural Resources (2008)
• Best Book Award (2016, The Wildlife Society)

Professor Conover has mentored numerous graduate students, including Kaid Gorringe, Lauren Head, Alex Blanche (MS), and Mark Bell. His teaching portfolio includes WILD 3300 (Management Aspects of Wildlife Behavior), WILD 6550 (Behavioral Ecology of Wildlife), and specialized courses on wildlife damage management. He has secured significant research funding to support his work on Great Salt Lake ecosystems, wildlife damage management, and behavioral ecology studies.

His research has direct applications for Great Salt Lake conservation efforts, wildlife damage management programs, and waterfowl management across North America. Professor Conover maintains active collaborations with state and federal wildlife agencies, particularly regarding Great Salt Lake ecosystem management and human-wildlife conflict resolution.