Being in nature comes naturally to University of Missouri senior Reid Monsees. 

“Nature has been one of the most important parts of my life for as long as I can remember,” he said.  

Monsees is studying natural resource science and management with an emphasis in fisheries and wildlife sciences. He’s also pursuing minors in environmental sciences and biological sciences. 

“Ever since I was young, I knew I wanted to be outdoors for the rest of my life,” Monsees said.  

As he prepares to begin his final year as an undergraduate, Monsees is spending the summer as a Creel Survey Technician for Mizzou’s Johnny Morris Institute of Fisheries, Wetlands and Aquatic Systems. The organization offers internships through its Pathways Program as part of its commitment to experiential undergraduate education. 

Monsees works in the Kansas City area in tandem with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC). 

“Throughout the day, I’m responsible for conducting an accurate count of anglers fishing on a body of water,” Monsees said. “Once they finish their trip, I introduce myself and complete a survey with their participation.” 

This survey helps Monsees find out more about the anglers and the types of fish they caught.  

“We learn about the species actually caught, how long the anglers fished for, what they fished for and how large the fish were,” Monsees said. 

He explained how MDC will use the data he collects to develop management plans for different bodies of water. 

“Getting an insight into where the current population numbers are for certain types of fish gives us a good look at how we need to manage that lake or pond,” he said.  

Monsees said managing fish populations is important for the success of certain species and anglers alike. 

“If there are too many fish of a certain species in that body of water, it causes too much competition for food and doesn’t allow them to grow like they should,” he said. “Managing their populations will help communities that use these resources to get the most out of their fishing trips and experiences.” 

Passion put into practice 

Monsees’ job isn’t only impacting the local environment and community – it’s also giving him the opportunity to grow his skills in the field he wants to work in. 

“This experience has really tested and improved my communication skills,” he said. “It’s also helped me see how the public views MDC because I get to provide a perfect opportunity for them to ask questions and earn trust with us and the services we provide.” 

Although Monsees has always wanted to pursue a career related to the outdoors, he said this opportunity has helped him find his niche. 

“This internship has solidified my love of being in nature and wanting to work in conservation,” Monsees said. “It’s also helped me narrow down what I want to do more specifically, which is to work in fisheries.” 

After he graduates, Monsees hopes to work for MDC, with a goal of one day owning and operating his own fishery. Some of the most important lessons he’s learned throughout the summer so far have kept him grounded in his passion for nature. 

“People repeatedly remind me that fishing is more about enjoying the outdoors and what nature provides, rather than being greedy and trying to catch a limit,” he said. “The experience means more than anything else.” 

Throughout his experiences in CAFNR and the career opportunities the College has provided him, Monsees believes every student has the potential to find their purpose, be successful and truly enjoy each day to its fullest. 

“If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life,” he said. “I’ve found what I believe to be my calling in conserving the environment and resources that come with it for future generations to enjoy what I have.”