The Mission of the James C. Kennedy Endowed Chair in Waterfowl & Wetlands Conservation

Sustain in perpetuity an internationally recognized, university program in teaching, research, and service focused on (1) gaining science-based knowledge for understanding and conserving waterfowl and other wetland wildlife species, populations, and communities, as well as their habitats; (2) educating current and future waterfowl and wetlands scientists and conservationists; and (3) providing outreach on waterfowl and wetlands ecology and conservation for public and private stake-holders.

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About Mr. Kennedy

Mr. James C. Kennedy generously established the James C. Kennedy Endowed Chair in Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation in the Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture of the College of Forest Resources at Mississippi State University in September 2008. This chair is the first in the College, and one of the largest endowments at MSU. Kennedy's gift sustains in perpetuity the teaching, research, and outreach program in waterfowl and wetlands ecology and conservation at MSU.

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Latest News

Kennedy students participate in 25 year study

Kennedy students were able to participate in a 25 year study led by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-Alaska District and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Alaska Region.

This year's research team was composed of two scholars from Mississippi State University—Riley Porter, graduate student, and George Williams, undergraduate student.

Read more at https://www.army.mil/article/259604

What's the buzz?

A new paper is out from our research describing an uncommon bee in Mississippi. It is the first record of a specimen from this species displaying morphological characteristics of both males and females. And perhaps most unique about this finding is that the bee was found using sunflowers (mid-June 2016) planted for dove or other hunting the following fall.

Kennedy student wins best presentation

The Southeastern Section of TWS annually recognizes the best student presentation and best poster given at the 75th Annual SEAFWA Conference. The best student presentation was Madelyn McFarland, Graduate Research Assistant, Mississippi State University, and her presentation entitled, "Avian Use of Marsh Terraces in Gulf Coastal Wetlands of Louisiana."

Waterfowl Q&A with Dr. Brian Davis on Mossy Oak Gamekeepers

Ducks flying
Dr. Brian Davis joins us in the studio this week. He answers all the questions we ask about ducks, their migration, banding, and how to improve our habitat to improve our hunting. Listen now.

Student Spotlight

Mason Thomas

Mason transitioned directly to a graduate position following the completion of his undergraduate degree in December 2020. Coming from an agricultural and outdoor background, Mason has always been interested in the impacts of agriculture on wildlife. He gained experience in agricultural conservation practices in the Mississippi delta during his undergraduate work within the department, which inspir...

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