Welcome to the Center for Wildlife Sustainability Research (CWSR - formerly known as the Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory). The CWSR was established in 1950 when then SIU President Delyte Morrris challenged Dr. Willard Klimstra to start a wildlife research laboratory on the SIU campus. The Center has evolved from research emphasizing single species management such as Florida Key Deer, Bobwhite Quail, and Bobcats to ecosystem management, such as coal mine reclamation. Through this process, the CWSR raises over $1 million in research grants annually, and has supported more than 425 M.S and Ph.D. students.
Because of the impact of increasing human modifications to the environment, the continued preservation of wildlife populations for recreation and conservation will require more diverse expertise across a larger landscape. In response, the CWSR has once again evolved to support a more integrated approach to wildlife research and management. Current and ongoing changes to the CWSR such as Affiliated Facutly positions will serve to build the more collaborative and diverse research approach required to maintain wildlife populations while providing the needs of a modern society.
Mission
The Mission of the Center for Wildlife Sustainability Research is to develop and communicate the information required to balance the needs of a growing human population with the needs of wildlife dependent on natural resources.
View Our Mission and Vision Statement
Online Giving
The Cooperative Wildlife Research Laboratory sincerely appreciates the generous contributions from alumni and patrons in support of our students. Contributions are imperative to our mission of promoting student research and training.
