About me
Brad Young is a Certified Wildlife Biologist with over 25 years of experience in working with wildlife and habitats in Mississippi and throughout the Southeastern U.S. Brad began his career as a biologist with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks and served as the Black Bear Program Leader for 11 years. During his time as Black Bear Program Leader, Mr. Young led an effort to conserve and reestablish black bears in Mississippi. This included the Louisiana Black Bear which was listed as a federally threatened species during that time. Efforts to conserve black bears in Mississippi included education and outreach throughout the state which educated citizens about cultural and natural history regarding black bears as well as their role in Mississippi’s ecosystems. Mr. Young also led research efforts to learn more about bears in the state through a trapping and radio-tracking program. This research provided insights regarding population growth, habitat preferences, and home ranges which were previously unknown in Mississippi.
Following his time with MDWFP, Mr. Young served as Executive Director of the Mississippi Wildlife Federation where he worked to develop conservation programs and policy to benefit the wildlife, habitats, and citizens of Mississippi. Mr. Young currently serves as a Principal Scientist with Allen Engineering and Science where he provides environmental consulting for projects ranging from building sites to landscape-level habitat initiatives.
Educational Background:
Master of Science (M.S.): Forest Ecology from Mississippi State University.Bachelor of Science (B.S.): Wildlife Biology from Mississippi State University
Career & Professional Experience:
Allen Engineering and Science (2017–Present): Serves as a Principal Scientist and Partner. He specializes in natural resource management policies, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) analysis, and wildlife conservation initiatives across the Southeastern United States.
Mississippi Wildlife Federation (2013–2017): Served as the Executive Director for four years, directing statewide wildlife advocacy, educational outreach, and policy management.
Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks (2002–2013): field biologist and leader of the state's Black Bear Program
