Conserving an endangered dragonfly: Lessons learned for insect conservation and beyond.

Dan Soluk and his students have been studying the Hine’ emerald dragonfly since shortly after it was listed as an endangered species in 1995.  It remains the only dragonfly to be federally listed as an endangered species, although many other dragonflies are in trouble due to habitat loss, roadway development, and the changing climate.  Understanding why the Hine’s emerald dragonfly is endangered and working out how to save it from extinction, have provided important lessons applicable to a wide range of other species.  It highlights the need to understand behavior and unexpectedly complex interactions that occur among species.  Conserving the Hine’s emerald dragonfly also highlights the many ways that groundwater extraction and roadway development can impact aquatic ecosystems. 

Dan Soluk has been a professor at the University of South Dakota since 2004 where he teaches classes in Entomology, Conservation Biology, and Freshwater Ecology.  His research has focused on the conservation of aquatic ecosystems ranging from the smallest temporary streams to larger rivers. 

The Loess Hills Audubon Society Board Meeting begins at 6:00 pm with Dan’s program beginning at 7:00 pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend both the board meeting and the free program!