William Ripple

William Ripple is a Distinguished Professor of Ecology and Richardson Chair at Oregon State University's College of Forestry, leading the Trophic Cascades Program. He holds a B.S. (1974, South Dakota State University), M.S. (1978, University of Idaho), and Ph.D. (1984, Oregon State University). His research focuses on conservation biology, trophic cascades, climate change impacts, and wildlife ecology, with a particular emphasis on large carnivores and their ecological roles. Ripple has pioneered studies on Yellowstone's wolf reintroduction effects and global climate emergency advocacy.

His research interests span wolf-ungulate-aspen dynamics, mesopredator release, ecology of fear, and historical ecology. Recent work addresses climate change threats to biodiversity, fossil fuel policy critiques, and planetary-scale sustainability challenges. Ripple co-authored landmark 'Scientists’ Warning' papers, emphasizing interdisciplinary solutions to ecological crises.

Ripple teaches courses like Trophic Cascades and Large Carnivores in Ecology. He directs strategic initiatives such as Strategic Forest Reserves to protect biomass carbon and biodiversity. His work bridges academia, policy, and public action, advocating for transformative climate and conservation measures.