Nature Lab at Work

Sherri Russell, DVM

State wildlife veterinarian

As the state wildlife veterinarian and chief of the Conservation Health Section, Sherri Russell serves two roles. As the wildlife veterinarian, Russell supports staff biologists in their research projects, provides diagnostic services, and consults on projects and policies that affect wildlife to promote the health of wildlife, aquatic populations, and forests. As section chief, Russell fills an administrative position that allows collaboration with staff engaged in monitoring and integrating information about the health of animals, fish, and forests.

A Typical Day

Russell says one of the best parts of her job is there is no typical day. Some days are spent in the office answering phone calls and emails from inside and outside the department. Others are spent in the field.

“I go where I am needed and provide direct services to the research teams,” Russell said. “Field work is when I have direct time with wildlife or fish.”

Notable Projects

Russell says she is most proud to be part of the team that is the Missouri Department of Conservation.

“We cannot protect and conserve resources if those resources are not healthy,” Russell said. “Therefore, work aimed at scientific understanding of threats and opportunities is crucial to our mission.”

Russell says she has consulted on many notable projects, including ones with deer and elk, bear, and a couple involving inserting transmitters to track otters and ducks. She is proud to be involved in the One Health initiative, which integrates ecological health with animal and human health in a model that helps people think about our interconnectedness when making decisions.

How You Can Help

Get outside and appreciate Missouri. The best times in life are spent with family and friends in the natural world. While you’re out there, keep habitats healthy for wildlife and keep wildlife wild.

Her Education

• Bachelor’s degree, University of Missouri: agriculture
• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri

“I love Missouri and I love animals. I see my work as benefiting the next generations so they know the magic that is Missouri outdoors.”

Explore career opportunities at MDC at jobs.mdc.mo.gov