A passion for environmental science led Kyle Morton ’22 to Brockport, where he found the opportunity to turn his curiosity into impactful research and a career focused on conservation.
“I chose Brockport because of the reputation that the Department of Environmental Science and Ecology has in the region.”
Kyle Morton
After learning about the Master of Science in Environmental Science and Ecology program through word of mouth, Morton felt confident in choosing Brockport.
“I chose Brockport because of the reputation that the Department of Environmental Science and Ecology has in the region,” said Morton.
The opportunity to work alongside faculty, peers, and professional collaborators allowed Morton to explore complex environmental questions while gaining experience that would shape his future career.
“Being able to work with faculty, peers, and collaborators on a research project that could answer specific questions and reveal further intricacies was my most significant academic accomplishment while at Brockport,” Morton said. “It was the best place to conduct research.”
As part of Assistant Professor Matthew Altenritter’s lab, Morton studied lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens), a native Great Lakes species that has been the focus of extensive rehabilitation efforts. Morton’s research examined the movements and migrations of lake sturgeons within the Genesee River and Lake Ontario, helping researchers better understand how these fish use connected habitats.
Morton led the project in collaboration with biologists from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Geological Survey. The team observed young lake sturgeon using the Genesee River as nursery habitat before traveling more than 100 kilometers to other waterways, including the Niagara and St. Lawrence rivers. The findings provide valuable insight into the role habitat connectivity plays in supporting future lake sturgeon restoration efforts.
“The professors and resources that are within the department made learning and conducting research at Brockport an amazing experience,” Morton said.
The partnerships Morton developed during his time at Brockport continue to influence his work today. He now serves as a biologist with the Native Species Program at the Lower Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, where he collaborates with partners to conserve and restore native fish populations.
“Following the path that you’re most passionate about will inherently foster happiness.”
Kyle Morton
Morton encourages students interested in environmental science to follow the questions and interests that inspire them.
“Students interested in this field should always think about and strive to excel at what draws them into this field of study,” said Morton. “Environmental science is diverse and offers many paths to success; following the path that you’re most passionate about will inherently foster happiness.”