James “Jim” Anderson

smiling bald and bearded man, standing in front of a tree
Clemson Expert Profile

James “Jim” Anderson

Director of the James C. Kennedy Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation Center; Director of the Belle W. Baruch Institute of Coastal Ecology and Forest Science; The James C. Kennedy Endowed Chair of Waterfowl and Wetland Ecology, Department of Forestry and Environmental Conservation – College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences

At A Glance

Wetlands do far more than provide habitat for wildlife — they help protect communities from flooding, improve water quality, store carbon and support outdoor recreation and local economies. As growing demands on land and natural resources reshape these landscapes, conservation and wildlife management are more important than ever. James T. “Jim” Anderson is an internationally recognized wildlife ecologist and wetland scientist. Anderson can provide insight on wetland conservation, waterfowl management, coastal resilience and the environmental challenges affecting wildlife and natural resources across the Southeast and beyond.

“Healthy wetlands are among our most valuable natural resources. By combining sound science with strong partnerships, we can develop conservation strategies that protect wildlife habitat, strengthen coastal resilience and ensure these ecosystems continue to benefit future generations.”

Bio

Anderson’s research focuses on wetland ecology, waterfowl management, restoration ecology and conservation strategies that help sustain healthy ecosystems and wildlife populations. His work examines how environmental pressures such as habitat loss, sea-level rise and changing coastal landscapes affect wetlands and waterfowl, while identifying approaches to restore critical habitats, improve ecosystem resilience and support long-term conservation and natural resource management.

He has authored or co-authored numerous peer-reviewed publications examining wetlands, avian ecology, amphibians and wildlife conservation. Through collaborative research with agencies, conservation organizations and land managers, his work advances practical approaches to wetland restoration, habitat management and biodiversity conservation throughout the southeastern United States.

Anderson is a Certified Wildlife Biologist® and is widely recognized for advancing wetland science while mentoring undergraduate and graduate students preparing for careers in natural resources and conservation. He joined Clemson University in 2021 following a distinguished career at West Virginia University, where he served as professor of wildlife ecology and management and held the Davis-Michael Professorship in Forestry and Natural Resources.

Highlights

  • Wetlands conservation
  • Waterfowl management
  • Coastal resilience and adaptation
  • Restoration ecology
  • Wildlife conservation

Degrees, Institutions

  • Ph.D. wildlife science, Texas Tech University
  • M.S. range and wildlife management, Texas A&M University–Kingsville
  • B.S. wildlife, University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point