Jeremy Facer’s journey into the world of fisheries and environmental research began in the wilderness of Idaho, where he developed a deep appreciation for nature. Now a graduate student in the Department of Natural Resources & Environmental Sciences and research assistant with the Illinois Natural History Survey under Joseph Parkos, Jeremy focuses on studying fish and their prey’s response to supplemental habitats in aging reservoirs. With a background in fisheries work across Idaho and Montana, his commitment to understanding and preserving natural ecosystems is evident. In the latest edition of “People of PRI,” Jeremy shares insights about his research, the curiosity that drives his work, and the importance of self-care in a challenging yet rewarding career. Continue reading to learn more about his experiences and advice for those entering the field.
Q&A with Jeremy Facer
Q: Can you tell us about yourself and your role at PRI?
A: I am currently a graduate student working under Joe Parkos, focusing on fish and fish prey (macroinvertebrates) responses to supplemental habitat practices. These habitats, such as recycled Christmas trees, are commonly added to reservoirs to compensate for the loss of structural habitat as reservoirs age.
While these practices are widely implemented across North America to enhance fisheries, the underlying mechanisms driving their effectiveness are not fully understood. My research aims to fill this knowledge gap by examining how fish prey communities respond to supplemental habitat over time and how spatially varying environmental conditions within large reservoirs influence fish use of these structures.
Q: What drew you to your area of work or study?
A: Growing up in Idaho, I was fortunate to have the wilderness as my backyard. My dad and I spent countless weekends camping, and through those experiences, he instilled in me a deep appreciation for the natural world.
From a young age, I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to something greater than myself, and that early connection to nature inspired me to pursue a career focused on preserving the environment so that others can experience and be inspired by it as well.
Q: What tools are indispensable to your work?
A: What truly drives my work is a deep curiosity about nature and how it functions. This curiosity is essential because it fuels the questions that guide my research. While tools like field equipment, statistical software, and GIS are critical for analyzing data, the real value comes from the questions born out of that curiosity.
On a more practical note, having a good set of field clothing is indispensable, as are essentials like sunscreen and bug spray. There's nothing worse than trying to focus on research while getting swarmed by mosquitoes!
Q: What questions do you get asked most frequently about your career?
A: One of the most frequent questions I get about my career revolves around the hands-on aspects of fieldwork. People are often curious about what it's like to spend long days out in nature collecting data and how I manage the physical demands that come with it.
Those of us in this field are fortunate to work outdoors and experience incredible things firsthand, and I think that resonates with many people who may not have the same opportunities to engage with nature in such a direct and rewarding way.
Q: What advice would you give to those just starting out in your field?
A: The typical career path for those working with fish or wildlife can be unpredictable and, at times, overwhelming. Like many in this field, I spent a lot of time doing seasonal work, moving between different locations and projects.
While I’m grateful for the opportunity to see new places and meet interesting people, I remember how challenging it could feel at first. My advice to those just starting out is to be kind to yourself and work at a pace that feels right for you. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush and push yourself too hard, but I’ve seen people burn out as a result. Taking care of yourself along the way is just as important as your work.
Q: What do you do in your free time?
A: Outside of work, my other passion is music, so I spend a lot of time playing and listening to it whenever I can. I’m also fortunate to have a great group of friends who I visit with often, and they've been a tremendous support in helping me navigate the challenges of graduate school.
Although most of my family is back in Idaho, I stay connected with them by spending a lot of time on the phone with my parents.