Ohio University graduate Michael Whittemore releases Ecology book

Michael Whittemore bridges ecological science and professional practice

Michael Whittemore is currently managing a multifaceted career that spans founding a private ecological firm, working for a land trust, and authoring a comprehensive study of mountain ecosystems. According to a report from Ohio University, the ecologist is the founder of Rewild Ecological and serves as the Communications and Engagement Manager for the Ammonoosuc Conservation Trust in New Hampshire.

This professional trajectory follows his 2018 graduation from the Master of Science Environmental Studies (MSES) program at Ohio University, an initiative offered through the Voinovich School of Leadership and Public Service. For Whittemore, the transition from student to practitioner was defined by the specific technical training provided by the MSES curriculum, which he credits with merging theoretical science with the practical demands of the workforce.

On November 1, Whittemore released his first book, a 500-page work titled Ecology of New Hampshire’s 4,000-foot Mountains. The text serves as an ecological and natural history exploration of the White Mountains landscape, incorporating scientific research profiles and “peak profiles” that combine field guide details with trail maps.

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The foundation of field-based research

Whittemore’s ability to manage large-scale ecological data was shaped by specific field projects during his graduate studies. While at Ohio University, he developed a partnership with the Crane Hollow Nature Preserve in the Hocking Hills. During a summer spent on the 2,000-acre preserve, he established extensive forestry plots to monitor trees, saplings, and understory plants.

The resulting plant community assessment provided a critical framework for the preserve, which has documented more than 10,000 species. By mapping these natural communities, the study helped scientists understand the specific ecological contexts in which these diverse species exist.

“MSES blended the practical workforce side with the more rigorous science side of applied conservation that I had not had any experience with,” Whittemore said.

Through Rewild Ecological, he conducts specialized plant surveys, while his work with the Ammonoosuc Conservation Trust focuses on public engagement and land preservation.

Scaling scientific knowledge through publication

While the project began in April, the final 500-page volume was made possible by contributions from various scientists, conservation organizations, and photographers who provided time and expertise.

The book addresses the complex ecological processes of the White Mountains, moving beyond simple topography to explain the natural history of the region’s 48 peaks that exceed 4,000 feet.

Ohio University graduate Michael Whittemore releases Ecology book

Whittemore, who now has more than 10 years of experience in environmental studies and ecological restoration, noted that despite his decade of field work, the process of synthesizing this knowledge into a book has been the most significant milestone in his career to date.

“I really didn’t know what was possible until I joined the MSES program,” Whittemore said.