New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
Media contact: Lance Cherry, (505) 476-8003
Public contact: (888) 248-6866
lance.cherry@state.nm.us
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, FEB. 10, 2015:
WILDLIFE SOCIETY HONORS DEPARTMENT WILDLIFE DISEASE SPECIALIST
SANTA FE – Dr. Kerry Mower, 20-year wildlife disease specialist for the Department of Game and Fish, recently was presented with the 2015 Wildlife Professional Award by the New Mexico chapter of The Wildlife Society. The award is given annually to a wildlife professional for outstanding contributions in their field related to wildlife in New Mexico.
As the Department’s wildlife disease specialist, Mower is widely recognized as the go-to guy for wildlife disease issues throughout New Mexico and across the west. His efforts have greatly improved the department’s disease-monitoring of chronic wasting and other diseases. He also leads the department’s efforts to improve techniques involved in wildlife captures and restraint procedures used in projects such as trapping and relocation of bighorn sheep, deer and pronghorns.
“Dr. Mower is always willing to lend assistance or provide advice on animal handling and drug use during wildlife captures across the state,” Department Director Alexandra Sandoval said. “His dedication to improving wildlife health, maintaining positive relationships with colleagues within and outside of the department, and inspiring the next generation of wildlife biologists makes him an invaluable wildlife biologist.”
Mower, who received his Ph.D. from Ohio State University, goes out of his way to provide hands-on experience to students aspiring to be wildlife professionals. He regularly gives presentations to the New Mexico State University chapter of The Wildlife Society and interacts with various student groups across the state.
“Dr. Mower is the epitome of a wildlife professional,” Sandoval said.
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