In her role as Extension educator, Michaeleen Gerken offers educational programming that focuses on the management and conservation of our natural resources.

Gerken holds a Master's degree in Natural Resource Ecology and Management focusing in forest biology from Iowa State University, and Bachelor's degrees in English and in Environmental Science/Biology.

Her research work included two studies: the impact of land management and urbanization on native vegetation, and the role of the herbaceous layer in nutrient sequestration in an agricultural setting.