Zoe Hutcherson Earns Research Grant

By Todd Fuqua

For Zoe Hutcherson (attending), this past summer was not one for vacationing.

Instead, she worked hard in the Sacramento Mountains and Lincoln National Forest in south-central New Mexico, gaining valuable experience while studying the effects of wildfires on forest wildlife. The Southwestern Center of Herpetological Research funded the project, awarding Zoe the Laurence M. Klauber Memorial Summer Research Grant for 2023.

Under the guidance of ENMU professor Dr. Drew Davis, Zoe’s research studied the impact of wildfire on pathogen prevalence in Sacramento Mountain Salamanders. This species is not listed as endangered due to its restricted range of threatened habitats along the narrow mountain range.

However, that very restriction is why Zoe feels this research is essential.

“Given its ecological importance and biodiversity significance, conservation measures are imperative to ensure the long-term viability of this species,” Hutcherson said. “It could benefit the area overall by helping educate people on the impact of wildfires on native species.”

The research involved taking swab samples and small tail clips from salamanders to test for viruses and pathogens. The samples were sent to the ENMU campus in Portales for analysis.

“This grant has given me a chance to grow, learn, and gain valuable experience in the field while also contributing to vital conservation and education efforts,” Zoe said. “I am truly thankful for the opportunity this grant has provided me.”