Owen Franco
Crew Leader
San Clemente Island Predator Research & Ecosystem Management
Education
B.S. Biology and Zoology; San Francisco State University 2016
1-Year at Nelson Mandela University in South Africa in 2015
EMT school through UCLA's program in 2018
Research/Career Interests
I am a wildlife biologist working on two major projects with IWS. I am based out of San Diego and when working in San Diego I work on the West Mission Bay Bridge Project. My job is to help the endangered light-footed Ridgway rail, through mesocarnivore removals. By reducing the number of mesocarnivores in this semi urban marshland, we are able to help mitigate the effects of human induced environmental changes. The second project I work on is based out of San Clemente Island. I am a member of the Predator Research and Ecosystem Management team. The goal of this department is to control invasive predator species, which aims to benefit the islands unique and endangered species.
Before working at IWS, I worked primarily in the marine field as a marine biologist. During my 6 years in the marine field I worked on all types of vessels and marine animals. From marine mammals and sea turtles to mussels and kelp. I made the transition to terrestrial biology in 2022 with IWS and although the two fields are quite literally opposites, the basic fundamental of science remains the same.
In my free time I enjoy surfing, fishing, hunting, cooking, diving and hanging out with my friends and family. The outdoors was always a great outlet for me and I knew early on I wanted to have a career that let me outside doing the things I enjoy. Growing up, I have always been into things that are high risk. There’s nothing more high risk then working to protect and conserve ecosystems and resources at home and abroad, for a brighter, sustainable future.
Contact
ofranco@iws.org