How Is research conducted?

There are two types of research for fisheries and wildlife, field research and lab research.

Field Research:

Field research is conducted outside of a laboratory and the areas could vary. For example, field research could take place in the middle of the woods or in a residence hall within a University. With field research the researcher gets a better understanding of the environment and the interactions that are taking place within. This type of research "offers contextual data on settings, interactions, or individuals". Because you are observing the behavior of animals your data could be misrepresented because of atypical behavior within a group of animals. This could be a single goose flying 50 yards to the right of the standard V formation. The way you gather information is with your field notes on your observations. You can also use videos or pictures to capture the behaviors of animals. We use both of these in my Fisheries and Wildlife lab class. Field research isn't always the best option because it takes up a ton of time and money. It takes time for a person to become familiarized with an area and the populations within said area.

If you enjoy hands on experience and learn through doing the field is where you should be. I personally enjoy field research better than the lab because you get to experience nature while doing it. Id love to be the person who sticks their face into the water to look for snails or doing a pebble count or whatever they are doing in the picture above.
"Field Research." Field Research. Child Care and Early Education Research Connections. Web. 31 Oct. 2015.

Lab Research:

The definition of lab research is research that is done in a room that is fit for scientific experiments. A benefit of lab research is the fact that it is conducted in a controlled environment. A person can manipulate variables and observe the reactions. This is beneficial because you don't have to spend a lot of time trying to familiarize yourself with a place. In my LB 144 class my group is working with pond snails. If we were to do field research we would have to spend most of our time in a body of water looking for snails the size of a pea. If you are crunched for time lab research is the way to go in my opinion. It takes out environmental variation and makes your experiment more accurate.


Jake B.

How to Research in Agricultural Engineering

By: Tyler Lahusky

Many different forms of research exist in the modern world of science, technology and engineering. Different fields have unique processes for conducting research that relate specifically to that field and suit their needs. Agricultural engineering is no different! Analyzing a number of published articles of research in agricultural engineering, I was able to determine three distinct ways that research is conducted within the field. This includes the method that most learned back in elementary school - the scientific method, along with real world analysis and engineering design processes. Real world analysis should be slightly familiar to us, as everyone does a simplified version of it in their everyday lives. However, engineering design processes may not be familiar to many of us. Here is how research is conducted in each of these ways in agricultural engineering.

Experimental Studies

Experimental studies in agricultural engineering generally relate to the scientific method. There is typically a dependent and independent variable present in a designed experiment. Using the scientific method, engineers are able to draw conclusions based on the preceding steps. For those unaware, the scientific method is a multiple step process, that typically follows steps similar to those such as these:

1. Identify the problem/question
2. Perform research on the subject
3. Construct a hypothesis
4. Test hypothesis by experimentation
5. Communicate results and draw a conclusion

(Source: "Steps of the Scientific Method." Steps of the Scientific Method. Science Buddies, 2015. Web. 30 Oct. 2015.)

The example I located of experimental research in agricultural engineering was from a study done on the impact of evaporative cooling preservation on the shelf life of fruits and vegetables in Southwestern Nigeria. Like most experimental studies, this was performed in a laboratory setting. Different fruits and vegetables were placed in a controlled environment while other fruits and vegetables of the same type were left out in simulated conditions of Southwestern Nigerian climate. Using the control and experimental species, along with following the scientific method, these agricultural engineers were able to complete their research and create solutions to a historical problem. (Ndukwu)

Real World Analysis

On a day to day basis, most of us use real world analysis simply by observing and drawing conclusions. This is much like one of the ways that agricultural engineers conduct research, only in much greater detail. Real world analysis involves observation of events that have occurred, are occurring or are planned to occur. In many instances, a specific sampling of what is being measured is selected and statistics are used to draw a specific conclusion. An example of this is researching the change in agricultural transportation in relation with it's effect on the environment in Sweden. This study happened in 1999 when an specific area in Sweden was undergoing recent negative environmental influences. To study the cause, agricultural engineers used GPS systems to monitor trucks and transportation vehicles used in agricultural transport throughout the area. They used this data to draw a conclusion on the transportation changes and its effect on the environment and attempted to condense travel and improve the environment. (Gebresenbet) This is a great example where real world analysis is at work, using observations of current agricultural events to create solutions to a problem.

(Source: http://www.northernlanduse.com/wp-content/uploads/Trunk_Road_WellHouseMap.jpg)

Engineering Design Process

Unless you are an engineer, you probably have never heard of the engineering design process. This is one of the most common methods of research used among agricultural engineers and engineers of all disciplines. Also referred to as the engineering algorithm, this process is an extremely thorough solution and testing process. This typically consists of a number of steps such as these:

1. Define the problem
2. Perform background research
3. Specify design and solution requirements
4. Brainstorm possible solutions
5. Choose the best solution
6. Perform development work
7. Build a prototype
8. Test and redesign

(Source: "The Engineering Design Process." Steps of the Scientific Method. Science Buddies, 2015. Web. 29 Oct. 2015.)

An example I found where the engineering design process was used is research completed for reducing pollution of ammonia and odor from spreading animal slurry. A new method to fertilize crops without releasing ammonia and odor to the environment was needed due to government regulation. This provided a problem for agricultural engineers to come up with a solution for. These engineers went through each step of the process, performing background research and coming up with the best solution of injecting the plants with slurry instead of spreading it. This new design was implemented and tested with successful findings. The new process is now in the testing and redesign phase as agricultural engineers work to further improve the design. (Pahl) Using the engineering design process, agricultural engineers were able to work toward a solution to an identified problem, implement that solution, and improve it for everyday use.

Sources:

 Ndukwu, M. C., and S. I. Manuwa. "Impact of Evaporative Cooling Preservation on the Shelf Life of Fruits and Vegetable in South Western Nigeria." Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences, 2015. Web. 29 Oct. 2015.

 Gebresenbet, G., and D. Ljungberg. "IT—Information Technology and the Human Interface: Coordination and Route Optimization of Agricultural Goods Transport to Attenuate Environmental Impact." IT-Information Technology and the Human Interface: Coordination and Route Optimization of Agricultural Goods Transport to Attenuate Environmental Impact. Elsevier Ltd., 3 May 2002. Web. 29 Oct. 2015.

 Pahl, O., R. J. Godwin, M. J. Hann, and T. W. Waine. "SW—Soil and Water: Cost-Effective Pollution Control by Shallow Injection of Pig Slurry into Growing Crops." SW-Soil and Water: Cost-Effective Pollution Control by Shallow Injection of Pig Slurry into Growing Crops. Elsevier Ltd., 3 May 2002. Web. 30 Oct. 2015. 

Prompt #6: Evaluating the book "Life at the Zoo" by Phillip T. Robinson

       The source that I chose to evaluate was a book written by Phillip T. Robinson called "Life at the Zoo". The author talks about his own experiences from when he was working at the San Diego Zoo. He shares some of his own interesting stories, along with talking about what it is like to work in a zoo. He talks about the rewards of working in this type of environment, along with the dangers.
       One of the many career paths in the field of animal science is an animal trainer. That can be classified very broadly as many different things. Someone could be working in an environment such as sea world, training the dolphins or whales. Someone could also be in an environment like a zoo, such as the author of this book. Because of that, I will be reading what he has said about zookeepers and what kind of work they have to do.
       According to Robinson, "the new kids (new zookeepers) were often delegated the more mundane tasks, such as hosing, raking, cleaning, and chopping veggies, in the manner of a progressive apprenticeship" (Robinson page 44). From the research I have done and from the information that I already know about zookeeping and animal science, this statement is very true. When one is first starting out in a zoo, he or she will have little to almost no contact or interaction with animals. They have to do tasks that aren't as interesting, but eventually they will make their way up to being a keeper and working with the animals. That also goes with the amount of money that the worker will be making yearly. Throughout the first year, one might not make much money at all, but as time goes on and experience is gained, the salary will become bigger.
       Robinson also said, "Some keeper assignments are, unquestionably, more desirable than others. Taking goat droppings off of a steep hillside or cleaning carnivore stools out of a drainpipe just might not be your cup of tea--more of a "reward" for political transgressions" (Robinson page 45). According to what I have learned about this career, this is also a very true statement. Most of the jobs that a keeper does are not very appealing. Cleaning the animal exhibits is probably the dirtiest task, and it also requires the most time. If one wants to work in a zoo, they need to be prepared to do a lot of cleaning.
       Zookeepers "must be mentally alert and be able to pay attention to all daily duties. Must have quick reflexes and be able to react quickly to changing animal situations. Must be able to walk and run quickly as needed. Will require close contact with large, wild animals" (Robinson page 45). All of this is also very true. Being a keeper is a very demanding job, requiring a lot of strength and the ability to think quickly, but it is also very rewarding. Being able to be around animals every day as a career would be so gratifying.

Phillip T. Robinson's "Life at the Zoo"

- Jamie R.

Source:
Robinson, Phillip T. Life at the Zoo. Chichester: Columbia University Press, 2004. Print.

Prompt 5

My major is Fisheries and Wildlife, on campus we have many clubs that could be associated with this. Squirrel watching and Fishing club and even the Outdoors club are a few examples of this. The Fisheries and Wildlife club is the club/organization that best fits with my major (shocker).

If you follow the hyper link in the first small paragraph it will take you to the MSU FW Club home page. From there you can go on the about us page or the prezi at the bottom.The Club meets Thursdays at 6:30 pm in room 221 in the Natural Resource building. If you want to join the club they do ask for 10 dollars a semester.They are a great group of people and are welcoming to new comers.

The club likes to email you every week and tell you what their plans are for that week. You can also go onto the website and see what they are doing for that week. Recently they did a river cleanup. They went into the Red Cedar and pulled garbage out of it. These fine men and women are truly dedicated to the environment. As a result they pulled three bike racks out of the river.

If you are interested in the club I suggest you go to the meeting on Thursdays or go to the website and add your email to the email list or go to the contact page and email the officers directly.

Jake




Sources:

"MSU Fisheries and Wildlife Club." MSU Fisheries and Wildlife Club. Web. 25 Oct. 2015.

Employment in Agricultural Engineering

By: Tyler Lahusky

Employment in agricultural engineering includes a vast range of opportunities. Numerous companies in society hire agricultural engineers for many different engineering and agricultural related needs. To get an idea of what the nature of these companies might be, an understanding of what agricultural engineers do in the workforce is necessary. Agricultural engineers may perform any of the following tasks, along with many more that are not listed.

• Design new forms of irrigation, drainage and flood or water control systems
• Perform reviews of research and literature related to their field
• Collect field samples and control samples for problem solving and research analysis
• Construction design of agricultural buildings and storage facilities
• Design of many different kinds of agricultural equipment
• Advocate sustainable agricultural practices
• Research new and better ways of farming
• Conduct research regarding new designs and improvements for current farming practices

(Source: "What Is an Agricultural Engineer?" How to Become an Agricultural Engineer. Environmental Science, 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.)

(Source: http://work.chron.com/DM-Resize/photos.demandstudios.com/getty/article/41/192/78295358.jpg?w=650&h=406&keep_ratio=1&webp=1

The breakdown of employment of agricultural engineers does not include all the different possibilities. It covers some of the most popular employment opportunities of agricultural engineers. As of 2012, the partial breakdown of agricultural engineer employment was as follows:

• 17% - Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services
• 16% - Federal Government
• 14% - Food Manufacturing
• 13% - Agriculture, Construction and Mining Machinery
• 6% - Educators

(Source : "What Is an Agricultural Engineer?" How to Become an Agricultural Engineer. Environmental Science, 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.)

Using a popular job search website called “Indeed”, I was able to locate a number of companies that were hiring agricultural engineers. Many of the jobs I found using the website fell under the design category, but that may be a biased sample based on the sampling method of using an online job website. Here are the results that I was able to locate:

• Bolten & Menk Inc. - Agricultural Drainage/Water Resources Engineer (Bolten & Menk)
• Dynamic Technical Services - Mechanical Design Engineer in Agricultural Construction (Dynamic Technical Services)
• RFA Engineering - Product Engineering for Equipment (RFA Engineering)
• John Deere - Ag and Turf Division Engineer for Real Axle Components (John Deere)
• Caterpillar - Develop and Validate Cooling Components (Caterpillar)
• Great Plains Inc. - Design Engineer for Agricultural Equipment (Great Plains)

Sources: 

"Agricultural Drainage/Water Resources Engineer (EI)." Bolten and Menk Inc., 17 Oct. 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

Services - Bettendorf, IA." Indeed.com. Dynamic Technical Services, 8 Oct. 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

"Experienced Product Engineer." - RFA Engineering. RFA Engineering, 20 Oct. 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

"Mechanical Design Engineer and Project Engineer Job - Oxbo International - Clear Lake, WI." Indeed.com. Oxbo International, 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

"Taleo - Global." Taleo - Global. John Deere, 14 Oct. 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

"Senior Engineer-Design (Cooling Component Design Lead)." Caterpillar. Caterpillar Inc., 21 Oct. 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

"Design Engineers." Steve.johnson. Great Plains, 16 Oct. 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

"What Is an Agricultural Engineer?" How to Become an Agricultural Engineer. Environmental Science, 2015. Web. 23 Oct. 2015.

Possible Employers in the Field of Animal Science

        In the field of animal science, there are many different career options, which means that there are many different employers for those working in that field. Some of those employers can include those in charge of animal breeding associations, pharmaceutical firms, meat processors, and food distributors. These people would hire workers to do the majority of the hands on work, while the employers watch over to make sure everything is going smoothly. Other employers could include those who are the head of breeding and livestock marketing organizations. Those who become research and lab technicians usually are employed by government agencies and private firms. Those animal scientists who are working in the educational area of the field and who work with the consumers of animal products can be employed by the National Cattlemen's Association, National Pork Producers Council, the National Dairy Herd Improvement Association, and others. Those who are trained as teachers, researchers, laboratory technicians, and extension specialists can be employed by Universities, colleges, and other educational organizations. Writers and communicators with animal sciences training are employed by the various animal industries in advertising, publications work, and public information activities. Those who have careers as animal caretakers,  technicians, gamekeepers, and veterinary assistants can be employed by zoos, kennels, horse farms, animal clinics, and animal preserves. There are what seems like endless opportunities when it comes to be employed in the field of animal science.

This shows a zoo manager checking in on the animals to make sure everything is running smoothly

Jamie R

Source:

"What Career Opportunities Are Available?" Asas.org. American Society of Animal Science, n.d.    Web. 21 Oct. 15.                         

Writing in Engineering (Prompt 3)

By: Tyler Lahusky

Many people believe that writing and engineering have very little in common and even clash with each other. However, contrary to prior belief, this may not be the case. Writing is more common in engineering than most people think! In fact, engineers may write up to 50% of their work time depending on their status in the company and the tasks they are required to perform. Using an interview conducted with Dr. Robert Lane, a professor of engineering at Texas A&M who holds over 30 years of experience, some light can be shed on how writing is conducted in the engineering world. All of the same concepts for writing in engineering certainly holds fast for a discipline of agricultural engineering.

            So what and how do engineers write? According to Dr. Robert Lane, engineers write a variety of things. Many reports and proposals are written by engineers. When an engineer has to solve problems, a report that outlines the problem and every aspect of possible ideas for solutions must be written. Most of what they write is fabricated into an analytical format. Clear and specific steps that point to a distinct main idea is a must for writing in engineering.

            What are some misconceptions about writing in engineering? Most people think there is very little writing in engineering, or that it is unimportant. According to Dr. Lane, this is highly untrue. Depending on what you actually do and your rank in the company, writing may be a very large part of your everyday job. It holds significance importance in moving up in the company and staying competitive. If you want your ideas to be considered, you must be able to communicate those ideas clearly and accurately, making writing an extremely important skill in engineering.

            How is communication in general used in engineering? Dr. Lane says that communication is important in every aspect of engineering. The ability to transmit information from your studies to other people and propose accurate ideas are essential. Communication to higher level management individuals about economics regarding your project is also essential. In the beginning of an engineering career, writing is the most important form of communication. However, as you move up the company ladder, oral communication becomes more important. Supervisors and other higher level engineers must be able to translate what is in writing to speech that management can understand and easily take notice of their work.

            Clearly, writing and engineering go hand in hand. Learning from Dr. Lanes personal experiences gives one a vivid picture of writing importance within the engineering world.

Source: Online interview with Dr. Robert Lane, Professor of Engineering, Texas A&M

            Tamuwritingcenter. “Dr. Robert Lane, Writing in Engineering.” Media Type Video. Youtube. Texas A&M, 18 August 2010. Video. Retrieved: 20 October 2015.

Types of Work done in the Field of Animal Science

        In the field of Animal Science, there are what seems like endless possibilities when it comes to all of the different careers. From what I have said in previous posts, one might think that working on a farm or with agricultural animals is the only option, but that is not true. All of the career options include: animal behaviorist, animal nutritionist, animal scientist, animal trainer, bio technicians, embryologist, geneticist, humane educator, marine biologist, meat scientist, molecular biologist, veterinarian, and veterinarian technician.

       An animal behaviorist "develops and conducts experiments that lead to good scientific results and evidence. The end result of the studies is to provide conclusions that help people properly raise and care for animals" (Careers, "Animal Behaviorist). Simply, animal behaviorists try to understand why animals behave the way they do, and they try to improve how animals are raised and cared for.



       An animal nutritionist "makes animals grow faster and more efficiently through proper nutrition. They find types and amounts of feeds that affect growth or other traits in animals. Animal nutritionists also test feeds and feeding methods to learn what nourishes livestock efficiently and economically. Another area of study for the animal nutritionist is how to minimize waste for environmental consideration" (Careers, Animal Nutritionist).

 



       Animal scientists "work to develop better, more efficient ways of producing and processing meat, poultry, eggs, and milk. Dairy scientists, poultry scientists, animal breeders, and other scientists in related fields study the genetics, nutrition, reproduction, and growth of domestic farm animals. Some animal scientists inspect and grade livestock food products, purchase livestock, or work in technical sales or marketing" (Careers, Animal Scientist).

 

 

Animal trainers "train animals for riding, security, performance, obedience, or assisting people with disabilities. Animal trainers do this by accustoming the animal to human voice and contact and conditioning the animal to respond to commands" Careers, Animal Trainer). The 3 animals that are trained the most are dogs, horses, and marine animals such as dolphins.

 

Biotechnicians "do routine lab and clinical tasks, record information and assist in procedures. They are employed by research institutes and pharmaceutical companies that conduct research. In general, Biotechnicians work in research, development and testing. They are concerned with the laboratory work that goes on during the development and the manufacture of products" (Careers, Biotechnicians).

 

 

Embryologists "study the fertilized egg of an animal in any stage of growth before birth or hatching. They observe the way reproductive cells merge to make an embryo grow, and they compare the embryonic development of different species and the physical and biochemical agents that affect embryo growth. They also study the causes of abnormal embryo growth and development" (Careers, Embryologists). 

 

 

Geneticists "conduct research on genes and gene mapping. Mapping a gene is usually the first step in isolating it, determining its structure in detail, and figuring out how it works. They seek to explain the origin and nature of natural variation and the relationship of such variants to their environment" (Careers, Geneticist).

 

 

Humane Educators "teach and promote humane attitudes toward people, animals and the environment. This includes, but is not limited to, anyone who teaches animal welfare, animal behavior, environmental concerns, character education, cultural studies and others. Humane Educators may work for a variety of private and public agencies or independently and teach in formal, informal,and non-formal settings" (Careers, Humane Educators).

 

 

Marine Biologists "investigate salinity, temperature, acidity, light, oxygen content, and other physical conditions of water to determine their relationship to aquatic life. They examine various types of water life, such as plankton, worms, clams, mussels, and snails, specializing in the study of salt water aquatic life" (Careers, Marine Biologist). They can also be responsible for breeding and cultivation of certain species.

 

 

Meat scientists "usually work in the meat processing industry, universities, or the Federal Government to create and improve food products. They use their knowledge of chemistry, physics, engineering, microbiology, biotechnology, and other sciences to develop new or better ways of preserving, processing, packaging, storing, and delivering meat and other food products derived from meat" (Careers, Meat Scientist).

 

 

Molecular Biologists "work with genetic materials and biological agents or systems to modify or create new products or processes for specific uses in the fields of medicine, agriculture, food and beverage processing, specialty chemicals, and environmental science. Through molecular manipulation or engineering, biotechnologists can alter the genes and change the makeup or behavior of organisms" (Careers, Molecular Biologist).

 

 

Veterinarians "care for pets, livestock, sporting, and laboratory animals. They protect humans against diseases carried by animals. Veterinarians in private practice diagnose and treat medical problems, perform surgery, prescribe and administer medicines, vaccinate animals against diseases, and perform other tasks related to animal health and welfare. They also advise owners on animal care, behavior, nutrition and breeding" (Careers, Veterinarians).

 

 

Veterinary technicians "typically conduct clinical work in a private practice under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian. They often perform various medical tests and treat and diagnose medical conditions and diseases in animals. For example, they may perform laboratory tests such as urinalysis and blood counts, assist with dental prophylaxis, prepare tissue samples, take blood samples, or assist Veterinarians in a variety of tests and analyses in which they often use various items of medical equipment, such as test tubes and diagnostic equipment" (Careers, Veterinary Technician). Vet techs are very similar to veterinarians, other than they aren't licensed like the veterinarian is.

 

 

- Jamie R.                                                                                                                                      



 



 

Source:

"Careers in Animal Science." Academics.aces. University of Illinois at Urbana, n.d. Web. 15 Oct. 15.                         

What can you do?

Have you ever had a question on a test that asked you what would happen if an animal was taken out of an area? If you were like most of the kids I knew growing up you might have just said "bad things". As a wildlife biologist you get asked this question and it is your job to figure it out. You can do this in a lab or in an actual study out in the field. You have the opportunity to study the effects pollution has on plants and animals in an area. And if you are good at your job you might have the opportunity to fix that problem.

This picture shows the common stereotypes of this job. Yes we love the outdoors and we can work with animals but when push comes to shove we are scientist. This involves long ours of research and late nights.

This is the first of a small series of blogs about what you can do as a wildlife biologist.

Jake B

Prompt # 4: Delivery and Style of Different Animal Science Sources

       When I went on the internet looking for different sources talking about animal science, I came across two that are both very good, but are very different at the same time. One is a casual blog run by a "farm girl agriculturist", and the other is a scholarly article written by two professionals in the field of animal science.
       The blog that I found is titled "Animal Science News", and can be found here: Animal Science News. This source is very casual and fun to look at. The top of the blog consists of the title with a picture of cows in the background; right away, that catches my attention. It is obvious that the goal of this blog is to inform people about the latest news in animal science, but to also entertain them to keep their interest. The most recent post is a video showing how cows eat. It puts the viewer of the video into the eyes of the cow to see what it is like. Obviously that video isn't teaching people very important information about animal science, but it is keeping their interest and it makes the viewer want to scroll down even more to see what else the blog contains. In my opinion, the style of writing that is used in this blog would be narrative and persuasive. Narrative writing is used to entertain, and this blogger wants to keep the viewer entertained, but also wants to inform them. That is why this source could also have a persuasive style in order to tell the readers all there is to know about animal science. The style of this blog could conclude that the audience is most likely people who just want to learn about animal science for fun. The purpose is most likely to inform and entertain those who come across the blog.
       The second source that I found is an article titled "The Application of Natural Zeolites in Animal Science and Aquaculture", and can be found here: Natural Zeolites in Animal Science. This source isn't as entertaining to look at, but it is very informative on the topic of natural zeolites in animal science and aquaculture. The website that this article is on contains 3 categories at the top: American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America. The style of writing that is used is persuasive. The writers of this article are obviously trying to inform the readers about zeolites; that is the purpose. They aren't trying to provide a form of entertainment such as pictures and videos like the previous blog; just words.
       From each of these sources, the reader gains different information. From the blog, the viewer gets to learn what is new in the industry of animal science, all while enjoying pictures and videos that are also posted. From the other website, the reader learns information about crops, soil, and environment science without being able to look at media such as pictures and videos. In my opinion, the source that we can trust more is most likely the website with articles written by professionals. They know more about the subject in depth, and since they are professionals, they are more trustworthy.

- Jamie R.

Sources:
"The Application of Natural Zeolites in Animal Science and Aquaculture." Science Societies. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Oct. 2015.
Animal Science News. N.p., n.d. Web. 7 Oct. 2015.

      

Salaries for Wildlife Biologist

The first time I met the faculty of my College and my major they said that a degree in Fisheries and wildlife will not make you a millionaire. Jobs can be hard to come by and you have to start at the bottom and work your way up.

According to learn.org the average salary for a wildlife biologist is around $62,000 a year. The top ten percent make around $90,000. However the bottom of the chart makes about $30,000. When you start in the field you usually start out as a technician and work your way up. The technician is the group that makes around 30K. Do not start off thinking you will make big bucks because you might be disappointed. Instead you should keep working hard to move up the ladder.

The picture above shows the annual mean wage of wildlife biologist and zoologist.

As you can see in the picture above the states that have the highest mean salary are states that have a large variety of animals and/or woods. Personally I want to go to the East or West Coast but after looking at this picture staying in Michigan wouldn't be a bad thing. As you move towards the interior of the country the landscape becomes prairies and grasslands. Also the population isn't as high as in the states on the Coast.  To make the salaries that are up in the $80-$90,000 you need to look for jobs in the darker blue region.

Jake B.

Sources:
"What Is the Average Salary of a Wildlife Biologist?" Learn.org. Web. 9 Oct. 2015.

Agricultural Engineering Salaries

By: Tyler Lahusky

Average Salaries – In General

            The average salary of an agricultural engineer, like any other career or job, depends upon a multitude of conditions. These conditions may include things like experience level, the company of employment, level in the company ladder, type of engineering (within agricultural engineering), gender or location. First off, we will discuss the average salary throughout the entire United States. In 2015, the average salary of an agricultural engineer within the first 5 years of graduating college was $55,000. ("Future Student FAQs"). The average overall salary of an intermediate level engineer was $77,000, with a range from about $55,000 to $84,000. ("Electrical Engineer II Salary | Salary.com") This range is primarily based on experience level and can extend much higher when someone has a great amount of experience. These agricultural engineers fall into the top 10% category, or the 90^th percentile. The average agricultural engineer that fell into the 90^th percentile made about $115,680 in a year. ("Agricultural Engineer Salary")

Location and Gender

            As you should no know from my last post about the demographics of agricultural engineering, females are not equally represented within the field. Due to this fact, females tend to make more than male agricultural engineers. The average female agricultural engineer made $94,058, while males made from only $35,000 to $84,000. (Purdue University) Along with the gender gap creating a salary gap in agricultural engineering, location plays a major factor in salary. Some states, such as Georgia, have an extremely high average salary for agricultural engineers at $90,000. Other states, such as Florida or Tennessee have an average salary of $45,900 or $35,500 respectively. (Purdue University) ("Agricultural Engineer Salary") See the image and table below to gain a better idea of the breakdown of agricultural engineering salaries by location.

Source: http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/se172021.png

Source: http://engineer-salary.com/agricultural-engineer-salary.html

Discipline

            Depending on the discipline an agricultural engineer goes into within a company will have minor effects on their salary. The highest paying discipline within agricultural engineering is in the professional, scientific, and technical services discipline at $82,720 for an intermediate level engineer. Second is manufacturing, which is what most people think of when they hear ‘engineer’, at $74,560. Third is management tallying in at $74,530 and lastly, public administration at $71,910. ("Electrical Engineer II Salary | Salary.com") There are a number of different disciplines within agricultural engineering besides the four mentioned here, but these four are some of the most popular. Companies themselves also pay their employees differently. Management of any company easily came in first as the ‘highest paying company’. The second highest paying company for agricultural engineers was the federal government with an annual salary of $81,080 on average. ("Highest Paying Industries for Agricultural Engineers")

Source: http://www.usawage.com/high-pay/industries-o172021.php

A Comparison

            In relation to other engineers, agricultural engineers typically have a slightly higher average salary. As I mentioned earlier, agricultural engineers made about $77,800 per year. ("Electrical Engineer II Salary | Salary.com") Mechanical engineers made approximately $76,172. Civil engineers made around $76,259, chemical engineers about $77,951 on average, and electrical engineers made $77,763 on average per year. ("Electrical Engineer II Salary | Salary.com") Of these types of engineering, only one was higher than agriculture engineering – civil engineering. Therefore agricultural engineering is just slightly higher, on average, than other engineering disciplines.

Sources:

"Electrical Engineer II Salary | Salary.com." Salary.com. Recruiter. Web. 8 Oct. 2015.

"Highest Paying Industries for Agricultural Engineers." Highest Paying Industries for Agricultural Engineers. USAWage, 2015. Web. 8 Oct. 2015.

"Future Student FAQs." - Agricultural & Biological Engineering. Purdue University, 2015. Web. 8 Oct. 2015.

"Bachelor of Science (BS / BSc), Agricultural Engineering (AE) Degree Average Salary." Bachelor of Science (BS / BSc), Agricultural Engineering (AE) Degree Salary, Average Salaries. Payscale Inc., 2015. Web. 8 Oct. 2015.

"Agricultural Engineer Salary." - Wages in 50 U.S. States. Engineer-Salary.com, 2014. Web. 8 Oct. 2015.

"Electrical Engineer II Salary | Salary.com." Salary.com. International Business Machines Corporation, 2015. Web. 8 Oct. 2015. 

Code of Ethics for Wildlife Biologist Prompt 2

Ethics is defined as moral principles that govern a group's or individual's behavior. When I think of ethics I like to think of a moral code or the code you live by. My personal code of ethics is relatively simple but it means the world to me.
1. All life is meaningful from the smallest insect to the largest animal.
2. Do not do anything to dishonor yourself or your family.
3. Work hard for what you want and don't expect things to be handed to you.
4. Protect those you love in any manner you can.
5. Do more good than harm.
This is just a brief example of the rules I follow everyday.


The American Birding Association is a group of people who watch and study birds. Their Code of Ethics on page 56 show what the organization believes in. Their main goal is to protect the birds and their habitats. They do not want people harming or disturbing the birds while they are being observed. As always they want people to respect each other which is the golden rule.
It is hard to find a code of ethics for wildlife biologist and if anyone finds one feel free to leave a comment I would love to read it. When working with animals you shouldn't over stress them or cause them unnecessary pain. I was watching North Woods Law the other day and they were recording data from a black bear. They were going to remove a tooth but the bear started to wake up. I am not sure why they wanted to take the bear's tooth but I know they wouldn't do it unless they knew it wouldn't harm the bear. I believe that it is a fair assumption that people who go into fisheries and wildlife have a love for nature and wouldn't do anything to intentionally disrupt it. In the code of ethics from the ABA (see above) the main goal is to protect the birds. I believe that the main goal is also to protect mammals and fish and all animals as well.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) believes that "Wildlife Warriors" don't do anything besides harm and stress the animals. Steve Irwin spent his life working with many different kinds of animals. They say at the beginning he did not truly understand the amount of stress he was putting on his animals. This can be said for anyone who is not an expert, if you don't know how to properly treat an animal you are likely to stress it out. As time went by he did learn how to handle the animals and became an iconic figure as a "Wildlife Warrior" and he still is iconic even though he has passed away. PETA would rather have people leave animals alone in general which I can understand.

Sometimes it is better to leave an animal be. But in order to further your knowledge about a species you have to study and record data from them. And if you do this right and follow a code of ethics and do not hurt the animal I believe that it is morally fine. Taking both of the professional sources into account I would add don't stress the animals you are working with. They are not some test subjects and their lives have meaning. The ABA code of ethics talks about respecting the environment and habitat of the animals. PETA gets a bad rep because of some of the things they do but I would also use their advice. Some animals do need to be left alone and if this is a judgement call I know my code of ethics will help me make the right decision.

-Jake B.



sources:
Guidelines to the Use of Wild Birds In Research." The Ornithological Council, 1997. Web. 5 Oct. 2015.

"Steve Irwin: Not a True 'Wildlife Warrior'" PETA Steve Irwin Not a True Wildlife Warrior Comments. 2012. Web. 5 Oct. 2015.

North Woods Law. Dir. Kim Bates. 2012. Film.

Typical Work Environment for an Animal Scientist

      In the field of animal science, there are many different types of work being done in plenty of different environments. These scientists are typically working in an area such as a farm, or an area dealing with animal and food production. That could include working in the field, such as actually being at a farm, or it could consist of working in a laboratory performing different experiments and tests.

 Animal scientists could also work for "pharmaceutical companies where they use biotechnology processes to develop drugs or other medical products" (What does an Animal Scientist do?). These scientists could additionally "work in research universities, private industries, or the federal government" (What does an Animal Scientist do?, Workplace). Here, they would study different reports and data in a lab or an office. If one were to be working in the field, he or she could have to follow certain bio-security measures to keep the environment clean and safe for both humans and the animals.

 One could also take a completely different route with animal science, and end up working in an environment such as a zoo. When getting a degree in this field, agriculture and food production is the main focus, but one could also take the route to get to a zoo, which is my main goal.

                                
-Jamie R.

Source:

"Animal Scientist." What Does an Do? N.p., n.d. Web. 02 Oct. 2015.

Demographics and Stereotypes of Agricultural Engineering (Blog Challenge)

By: Tyler Lahusky

The Demographics

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics have always had problems with the demographics of each field. Many times, these field have trouble finding people to work in the field, or are underrepresented by minorities. In the case of agricultural engineering, the job market does not struggle to find people to fill its positions and degrees, but is underrepresented by women specifically. (" Proceedings from AGROTEC/FAO Workshop Gender and Agricultural Engineering, Zimbabwe, 4-8 March, 1996")The total number of agricultural engineering degrees in the United States increased by 5.6% in 2011 ( Yoder, "Engineering by the Numbers"). Of these engineering jobs, just 18.4% of total engineering degrees (based on any discipline of engineering) had 18.4% of women with engineering degrees. Agricultural engineering specifically had 31.9% of its total degree holders to be women. To see the complete breakdown by discipline of the number of women in engineering (by percentage) refer to the graph below. ( Yoder, "Engineering by the Numbers")

Source: Yoder, Brian L. "Engineering by the Numbers." ASEE. American Society for Engineering Education, 2011. Web. 2 Oct. 2015.

 The Stereotype

               The common stereotype for an agricultural engineer is a ‘glorified farmer’.  Like all stereotypes, this has some truth and some falsities. Agricultural engineers, just as any other engineer, is a highly educated individual in the field of engineering, with a profound knowledge in the area of agriculture and farming. Larry Hoover, a member of the NSPE, agues this stereotype of a glorified farmer stating that agricultural engineers are “More than just farmers in engineering”. (BOYKIN, "Standing Out") Most agricultural engineers have just the right mix of a passion for agriculture and a heavy interest in engineering. In order to remove the stereotype of people in the field, the name biological engineer has arisen. The removal of the word agricultural from the title helps to bridge the gap to a number of different people who aren’t necessarily ‘farmers’ but take an interest in the field.(BOYKIN, "Standing Out")

The Changes

               Biological and agricultural engineering has seen some changes, also, that lead to the addition of the word ‘biological’ within the title of the discipline. Agricultural engineering has seen a major movement toward the biological sciences. Instead of working heavily with machinery and processes, agricultural engineers are taking a major focus in biology and related field. In the past, agricultural engineering was overlooked by most people in the world and even in engineering. With the focus switching to biology, people are no longer overlooking agricultural engineering. It is no longer losing out to the major disciplines of engineering that everyone thinks of when they hear ‘engineering’ (eg. Mechanical, chemical, nuclear, civil, ect.). These changes along with agricultural engineering becoming more noticeable in the community is helping to bridge the existing gender gap within the field. The biology side of things is attracting more and more females to the field and is expected to continue to do so.  These changes for agricultural engineering are helping to set a new trend for engineering and a whole new take on a traditionally stereotyped field. (BOYKIN, "Standing Out")

Sources:

 "Proceedings from AGROTEC/FAO Workshop Gender and Agricultural Engineering, Zimbabwe, 4-8 March, 1996." Proceedings from AGROTEC/FAO Workshop. 4 Mar. 1996. Web. 2 Oct. 2015.

 BOYKIN, DANIELLE. "Standing Out." Standing Out. National Society of Professional Engineers, 2012. Web. 2 Oct. 2015.

 Yoder, Brian L. "Engineering by the Numbers." ASEE. American Society for Engineering Education, 2011. Web. 2 Oct. 2015.