Molly Van Appledorn, PhD
My research centers on understanding how river-floodplain ecosystems function by combining tools and approaches from the disciplines of ecology, hydrology, hydraulics, geomorphology, geographic information science, and statistics. By unpacking important ecosystem processes I can contribute to better stewardship of the unique sets of natural resources they support.
A large focus of my work is to describe the relationships between flooding dynamics and ecological patterns and processes. I also regularly collaborate with other scientists to understand how river-floodplain ecosystems respond to changing hydrology; silvicultural best practices in floodplain forests; and how hydrologic, sediment, and wood regimes interact to shape the quality and distribution of aquatic habitats. The research is used to inform management practices by partner agencies and stakeholders to ensure the long-term sustainability of our ecosystems.
Professional Experience
2023 - Present: Research Ecologist, USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center (La Crosse, Wisconsin)
2016 - 2023: Ecologist, USGS Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center (La Crosse, Wisconsin)
2019 - Present: Graduate Faculty, Natural Resources Science & Management Graduate Program, University of Minnesota (St. Paul, Minnesota)
2018 - Present: Graduate Faculty, Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin - La Crosse (La Crosse, Wisconsin)
2018 - Present: Adjunct Faculty, Department of Forest Resources, University of Minnesota (St. Paul, Minnesota)
Education and Certifications
Geography & Environmental Systems Ph.D., 2016, University of Maryland Baltimore County
Ecology M.S., 2009, Utah State University
Environmental Science B.S., 2003, University of Michigan
Science and Products
River‐valley morphology, basin size, and flow‐event magnitude interact to produce wide variation in flooding dynamics River‐valley morphology, basin size, and flow‐event magnitude interact to produce wide variation in flooding dynamics
Indicators of ecosystem structure and function for the Upper Mississippi River System Indicators of ecosystem structure and function for the Upper Mississippi River System
Non-USGS Publications**
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.
Science and Products
River‐valley morphology, basin size, and flow‐event magnitude interact to produce wide variation in flooding dynamics River‐valley morphology, basin size, and flow‐event magnitude interact to produce wide variation in flooding dynamics
Indicators of ecosystem structure and function for the Upper Mississippi River System Indicators of ecosystem structure and function for the Upper Mississippi River System
Non-USGS Publications**
**Disclaimer: The views expressed in Non-USGS publications are those of the author and do not represent the views of the USGS, Department of the Interior, or the U.S. Government.