Overview
Jesse Parker is studying for a Masters of Science degree in Forestry with Dr. Laura Thompson, Research Ecologist, USGS National Climate Adaptation Science Center, and Dr. Schlarbaum serving as co-major professors. His research focuses on locating naturally occurring populations of swamp white oak (Quercus bicolor), in conjunction with developing genetic conservation through the establishment of seed orchards of this very uncommon tree in Tennessee. Jesse will be applying species distribution models to help understand and predict the occurrence of swamp white oak in Tennessee and to identify ideal restoration habitat in consideration of a changing climate. Jesse’s research interests include forest ecology, forest management, landscape ecology, and biodiversity conservation with an emphasis on the hardwood forests of the eastern United States.
