Theses and Dissertations
ORCID
0009-0000-0283-0364
Advisor
Rohnke, Adam
Committee Member
Boudreau, Melanie
Committee Member
Cartwright, John
Date of Degree
8-12-2026
Original embargo terms
Embargo 2 years
Document Type
Graduate Thesis - Open Access
Major
Wildlife, Fisheries & Aquaculture
Degree Name
Master of Science (M.S.)
College
College of Forest Resources
Department
Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture
Abstract
This study sought to determine how human-wildlife interactions (HWIs) are recorded and organized in state natural resource agencies and extension services across the United States, particularly through using standardized HWI reporting systems and their associated databases. Eight semi-structured, qualitative interviews conducted with organizations from three states and a web-based quantitative survey distributed across the United States provided insight into the characteristics of these systems, the managerial implications of system use, and the benefits and challenges to successful utilization. Findings indicated that HWI reporting systems were generally viewed favorably and served as a valuable resource for HWI management, but optimal usage was inhibited by factors such as outdated technologies, noncompliance, and biased reporting. This study highlights the importance of continued investigation into HWI reporting system construction and optimization, along areas for inter-organizational collaboration in HWI management.
Recommended Citation
Smithson, Katherine Ann, "Who’s got one and do they work? A national assessment of human-wildlife interaction reporting systems and their effectiveness" (2026). Theses and Dissertations. 7077.
https://scholarsjunction.msstate.edu/td/7077
