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Matthew R Fisk

I am an Ecologist at the USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center. I am interested in restoration, native plant materials development, wildland seed collection and processing, seed technology, and plant species distribution patterns and population dynamics. 

With almost 20 years of experience working in restoration ecology and native plant materials development research, I help supervise and lead technical staff within the Plant-Soil-Environment Laboratory team. My current projects include widespread post-fire monitoring efforts across the Great Basin United States, as well as conducting research on the ecological effects of fuels reduction management and the potential of byproducts for use in restoration. I am interested in finding better ways to collect, grow, and store native seed for long term use, helping bridge the gap to get the right seed in the right place at the right time. I have collaborated on projects spanning from the western United States, to Germany, to the Hawaiian Islands, to The Middle East. It is our job to streamline avenues for individuals and cultures across the globe to come together and solve local and global-scale issues by sharing science and utilizing specialized expertise.

Professional Experience

  • 2016-present: Ecologist, USGS Forest and Rangeland Ecosystem Science Center, Boise, ID

  • 2003-2016: Biological Science Technician, U.S. Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Boise, ID

  • 2006-2007: Faculty Research Assistant, Brandenburg Technical University, Cottbus, Germany

Education and Certifications

  • M.S., Natural Resources, University of Idaho (2016)

  • B.S., Biology (Botany Emphasis), Minor in Philosophy, Boise State University (2006)

  • Red Card - Incident Qualification Certified – Biologist & Botanist Technical Specialist

  • NOLS Wilderness First Aid Certified

Affiliations and Memberships*

  • Society of Xi Sigma Pi

  • Society for Ecological Restoration, International Network for Seed-Based Restoration

  • Society for Ecological Restoration, Great Basin Chapter

Science and Products

*Disclaimer: Listing outside positions with professional scientific organizations on this Staff Profile are for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement of those professional scientific organizations or their activities by the USGS, Department of the Interior, or U.S. Government