Brooke Talley

Brooke thrives in a work environment where complex wildlife management challenges require objective assessment and creative solutions. Her professional past is checkered with numerous examples of where scientific data and public input are successfully used to ensure positive policy results. Approximately ten years ago, she was at the forefront of combatting the illegal turtle trade in Florida; as demand quickly grew to outpace the legal supply of turtles in the US, she and colleagues proactively engaged with other wildlife professionals and law enforcement personnel to bring justice to the illegal activity that was underway. More recently, Brooke oversaw complex socio-political challenges associated with American alligator and American crocodile management in Florida. She ensured that these challenges were met with practical management decisions focused on sustainable use and public safety. Brooke holds a B.S. in Biology (Indiana University), an M.S. in Environmental Engineering Sciences (University of Florida), and a Ph.D. in Zoology (Southern Illinois University). She worked as a wildlife manager and administrator for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for ten years before joining ARC.  Her current role is focused on the urgent need to curb turtle trafficking and includes leading the efforts of the Collaborative to Combat the Illegal Trade in Turtles (CCITT).