Rachel Hager

Bio

I am a Masters student in Ecology at Utah State University, where I study how we can improve wetland restoration outcomes using diverse native plants. About two years ago I realized my favorite part of research was talking to non-academics about wetlands and learning from them about how they value these ecosystems. This realization led me to pursue science communication and work as a science reporter for Utah Public Radio. I am passionate about connecting with people about science and nature. When I am not tromping around muddy wetlands, I can be found rafting rivers, gardening, or enjoying the latest brunch spot. I am thrilled to be placed as a fellow with The Idaho Statesman in Boise and am excited to adventure in The Gem State this summer!

@RachelNiaHager

Clips

• How will our wet spring affect wildfire season? Probably not the way you think.

• Captive-bred monarch butterflies don’t fly south, study says, as wild population shrinks

• Could Saturn’s moon sustain life? A NASA mission powered by Idaho nuclear energy will find out

• City of Boise challenges residents: Can you reduce your reliance on single-use plastic?

• Red, white and pale blue! Science explains the magic of Fourth of July fireworks.

• Valley air quality has been good all spring. It gets worse starting tonight and Friday.

• Happy birthday, Boise composting! Two years of success – but not without issues.

• Weapons, mutants and hypotheses. Science-based video game helps reach Idaho students.

• A moose mystery: The majestic animal’s numbers dwindle – and the why is elusive

• Sagebrush is disappearing across West. Here’s how scientists hope to save it

• Boise, 13^th fastest-warming city in the US. Here’s why it’s unlucky for residents.

• Idaho Power can make it snow – increasing water reserves, powering homes. But is it safe?

• They breathe, blink, give birth. Life-like dolls help train Idaho nurses, combat shortage.

• Just how bad are wildfires on our health? A high-tech lab will fly into smoke to find out

• Is your food ok? BERT, an AI computer, might be the key to safe supply, quicker recalls

• New Discovery Center exhibit coming soon: a ‘magical’ robotic arm

• Boise may dump treated water into canal. City says it’s clean, but some neighbours worry

• Save on funeral costs and serve Idaho education too. How? Donate your body to science

• Back-to-back low-snow years ‘highly likely’ for Idaho in 2050s. What that means