Scott Leorna – Alaska Regional Conservation Coordinator

Scott Leorna was born and raised on Camano Island in northwestern WA where he developed a deep-rooted connection with the area’s natural beauty and diversity of outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, camping, and more. His passion for the outdoors and desire to pursue a career in wildlife management and conservation led him to complete a B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in wildlife biology and conservation from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Scott’s research has focused on the human dimensions of wildlife field, studying the interactions among people, wildlife, and the environment, particularly within big game hunting systems. His work has engaged diverse stakeholders including state and federal agencies, non-profit organizations, energy developers, special interest groups, academics, indigenous communities, resource users, and the general public.

Scott is currently based out of Juneau, Alaska with his wife, Jess, and two children, Onyxx and Atlas. He says, “I am excited to have joined the Mule Deer Foundation and look forward to expanding the emphasis on Sitka Black-Tailed deer conservation in Alaska through habitat projects, monitoring, and community engagement.” In his free time, Scott is an avid archery hunter and enjoys exposing new people to archery and the outdoors.

Contact:
sleorna@muledeer.org