While still in graduate school, Beau began working for Philip Ramsey, MPG’s current director, as a seasonal technician and research assistant. During this time, we focused on restoring a property in the Swan Valley near Condon, Montana, which had been heavily logged. The work involved ecological research, contemplating the habitat needs of grizzly bears, cutthroat trout, and western white pines—species we aimed to enhance. Much of our attention was dedicated to addressing invasive species such as Canada thistle, rainbow trout, and spotted knapweed, which we aimed to eliminate. It's worth noting that what would later become MPG Ranch in Florence, Montana, was unknown to us at that time.
With the acquisition of MPG Ranch in 2010, Philip needed to establish and manage our operations there, leading Beau to take charge of managing the property near Condon. That place is now known as MPG North. Over the years, we’ve added wetland and deciduous forest restoration to our focus, paving the way for beaver recolonization. The persistent challenge of addressing invasive species remains.
Beau has also grown his involvement with the flagship property, MPG Ranch. He oversees a riparian restoration project that we hope will provide a home for beavers, and he serves as MPG’s liaison with the sharp-tailed grouse reintroduction project. Additionally, Beau plays a key role in managing MPG’s vegetation monitoring program. Contributing to our mission of "understanding the ecology of western Montana," he actively participates in research collaborations on topics like food webs, exotic species invasions, and native species conservation.
Beau earned a B.S. in forestry in 2005 and completed his M.Ed., with an emphasis in biology, in 2010, at the University of Montana. He resides in Missoula with his wife, Julie, two children, and their pet rabbit.
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