Adam Rotert's research on the issue of marine debris impacting sea turtle hatcheries begins a bit further inland.
"I grew up in rural Missouri playing in the woods with naturalist parents helping to develop my love of the environment from a young age," said Adam.
Adam further cultivated his passion for the nature and education during his undergrad years by exploring the numerous lakes, spring-fed rivers, caves and hilly areas of central Texas, where he earned a degree in geography with a focus on natural resource management from Texas State University. After graduation, Adam landed a job in Washington D.C. with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration where he spent seven years working with environmental hazardous spill response and restoration.
"This work and all the waterways around here inspired my attendance at Oregon State University," Adam said.
At OSU Adam focused his research on ecology and restoration while pursuing a master's in environmental science. His project highlighted geospatial tools and how they can drive decision affecting endangered species, in particular sea turtle hatcheries in Florida battling marine debris for a chance at life.
