Emphasizing the Importance of Biodiversity

As a Fish and Wildlife Biologist, Meaghan Conway ’95 has seen firsthand how biodiversity is vital for both animals and humans. She recently shared important insights on the subject with Canterbury’s Environmental Science class during a Zoom presentation, “Protecting Biodiversiy.”

With a Ph.D. in Ecology and Environmental Science from the University of Maine and extensive experience as an avian ecologist and conservation biologist, Meg brought a wide range of knowledge to her talk. Her work has included research and monitoring focused on the conservation and management of rare endangered birds and assessing species’ response to environmental change. In her current role, Meg collaborates with partners across the western U.S. and Mexico to develop strategies for the conservation and recovery of endangered species and their habitats. As such, she has seen the effects climate can have on biodiversity and ecosystems.

“Climate change is complicated because different species are impacted so differently. On the East Coast, the problem is too much water with flooding and the sea level rising,” Meg explained. “One of the species living there is declining quite dramatically, and modeling efforts predict that it might be gone by as soon as 2050, which is not that far off. It is being considered for listing under the Endangered Species Act to provide some protections going forward.”

By contrast, conditions are very different where she works in Arizona. “Out here, we have drought. Most of the species live along the Colorado River, and temperature and precipitation have considerable impact on the environment,” she said. “Three different birds, a number of fish, and even a couple of snakes are threatened. Also, plants require water—and while there are desert types that can survive in an inch of rain, once that changes to zero rain for three years, it can be too much to tolerate. The birds rely on all these ecosystems that need water, so they are facing difficulties.” Much of Meg’s work centers around ways to preserve and protect these species going forward.

Instructor and Science Department Chair Cammy Roffe P ’12, ’15 appreciated how students could tie in Meg’s words to what they are learning in class. “We cover much of what she talked about, such as the Endangered Species Act, invasive species, and the impacts of climate change,” Cammy said. “This helps the students understand why we need biodiversity. It is not just because animals are ‘cool.’ They clean our water and are important sources of food. It is all interconnected.”