ABERDEEN, S.D. – Northern State University’s Dr. Amy Dolan was recently awarded a grant from South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.  

The grant is titled “Population structure, efficacy of trapping techniques and hematological measures of stress” and the study will be carried out this summer near Clear Lake, S.D. Dolan was awarded the grant along with University of Minnesota Morris Dr. Heather Waye.

Dolan and Waye aim to estimate the population size of western painted turtles at the study site, document any other turtle species and compare the efficacy of three common trapping techniques. In addition, Dolan and Waye will assess population structure using morphological and genetic measures and examine hematological measures of stress.

“I am so excited to have this opportunity to learn more about our native turtles in South Dakota,” said Dolan. “Our current understanding relies heavily on by-catch data and voucher specimens. This grant will allow us to get an accurate picture of the population dynamics of painted turtles in our area.” 

Dolan joined Northern's faculty in 2018 as lecturer of biology. She attended the University of Oregon and graduated with her B.A. in biology and Spanish. She went on to earn her Ph.D. in biology at Portland State University studying genetics, reproductive biology, mate choice, and reproductive success of eastern kingbirds.

About Northern State University

Northern State University is a regional university that offers outstanding academics and exceptional extracurricular activities at an affordable price on a safe, welcoming campus. Northern State recently announced its Educational Impact Campaign, with a goal of raising $55 million for a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired, new athletic and recreation fields, and an on-campus regional sports complex. Once the campaign is complete, NSU will be the recipient of more than $100 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.