Blake Hudson is Dean and Professor of Law at Cumberland School of Law, Samford University. Previously, he served as Samuel T. Dell Professor of Law and Director of the Environmental Land Use and Real Estate Law Program at the University of Florida’s Levin College of Law. His academic journey includes roles at Stetson University College of Law, Louisiana State University Law Center, and the Houston Law Center. He holds a JD from Duke University (High Honors), an MA in Environmental Science and Policy from Duke’s Nicholas School, and a BA from the University of Montevallo. His research focuses on land use law, natural resource management, and federalism, with emphasis on forest management’s role in climate change mitigation. He has published over 30 articles, 10 book chapters, and three books. Key themes include private property rights, constitutional structures, and the interface between environmental policy and governance frameworks. His work bridges legal scholarship and practical applications, addressing challenges like sustainable development, regulatory uncertainty, and disaster resilience. Hudson’s interdisciplinary approach integrates law, ecology, and policy to propose innovative solutions for complex environmental problems. Professional leadership roles include directing the John P. Laborde Energy Law Center and co-directing the Environment, Energy, and Natural Resources Center. His teaching spans property law, environmental law, and natural resources law. He previously practiced at Baker Botts, a leading law firm in Houston. Research trends reflect growing attention to climate change adaptation, federalism reforms, and the interplay between local and global resource governance. His publications emphasize nested governance systems, constitutional frameworks for environmental protection, and market-based conservation strategies.
