Conservation Economics

H. Jo Albers

Heidi J. Albers (Jo) is the Wyoming Excellence Chair in Conservation Economics in the Department of Economics at the University of Wyoming. Jo’s research follows two strands: integrated spatial bio-economic models for optimal resource and conservation decisions and economic policy analysis at the intersection of biodiversity conservation and rural poverty. Methodologically, Jo’s research typically develops empirically-inspired spatial-dynamic decision models that include characteristics of both the socioeconomic and ecological setting. Her international work includes recent and current research in Tanzania, Costa Rica, and Chile, with less recent research in China, Thailand, and India. Her highly interdisciplinary research approach is evident in her career-long exploration of protected areas as a conservation tool, including both terrestrial and marine settings, and other topics such as integrating poverty-alleviation projects into forest/land management plans; small-scale aquaculture adoption; invasive species management; and landscape policies to conserve migratory species.