Humans (Homo sapiens) are animals too and an integral part of ecosystems, as predators and extending influence on all ecosystems on the planet. Viewing people as a component of an ecosystem—rather than an entirely separate entity—provides an important shift in dialogue. Modifications in human behavior can be encouraged from an ecosystem perspective, as human health is invariably linked to that of the ecosystem, and vice versa. The field of conservation ecology is needed largely because of human-based (anthropogenic) impacts on environmental processes. We are part of the problem, which means that we have the power to also be the solution. For this reason, our lab of ecologists devotes energy to social sciences and community involvement.

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To make progress in science and conservation, we believe we need more than just the science. Science forms a foundation of knowledge, but intelligence and effective communication is what drives whether feasible solutions can be developed and effective outcomes can be experienced. Knowledge is the vocabulary, relationships and conversations write the story.

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Community service is a valued part of our mission. We participate as members of local civic groups and engage in state, regional, and national planning efforts. Our lab actively engages in outreach and environmental education opportunities by delivering programs, lectures, classroom visits, and tabling events. Through these platforms, we bring science to where the action is occurring and decisions are being made.

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Additionally, human are a dominant presence in the systems in which our lab conducts research into ecological and social systems.The coastal areas in which we work offer a rich array of natural resources where local communities are reliant upon these resources for aesthetic, recreation and economic value. As our lab focuses on applied research topics in urban ecosystems, our study sites provide ample opportunity to research human impacts, to educate people about how they can help protect wildlife and resources, and to learn how conflicts between human and natural interests can be effectively resolved. In these landscapes, natural systems and human interests may be in conflict. In order to practice effective conflict resolution, we must seek solutions that foster the health of our natural resources while addressing commercial drivers that economically sustain local communities.