Masters Thesis
I defended my Masters thesis in Geography at SDSU in the winter of 2007 and was graduated in the spring of 2008. My research focused on analyzing the significance of a least-cost path GIS methodology to model mountain lion movement within southern California. In turn, I utilized this method to try and predict where a mountain lion may move through a complex wildland-urban matrix and approach an interstate. The results of my research located potential crossing locations along I-15 just south of Temecula, CA within a recognized wildlife corridor connecting the Palomar Mountains to the Santa Anna Mountains.
My studies in Geography at SDSU helped solidify an interest in conservation biology, environmental management, and tools such as GIS to help solve complex spatial problems. Moreover, I was grateful to add to the rich literature pertaining to the field of landscape ecology and the topic of wildlife corridors.
