Dr. Joe Schaefer

Dr. Schaefer's current position is South Florida District Extension Director.

He received his wildlife degrees from the University of Maine (BS), and Iowa State University (MS and PhD). He then worked for five years as a wildlife biologist for the Kansas Fish and Game Commission.

Joe arrived at the University of Florida , Gainesville campus, as an Assistant Professor/Extension Specialist in 1987 and was promoted to Full Professor in 1999. During his tenure at UF Dr. Schaefer taught 8 different classes; served on 23 graduate committees; served as principal or co-principal investigator for 20 projects at more than $2 million; delivered over 30 presentations at professional conferences; and wrote more than 100 publications.

He also served as the Director for Natural Resources and Natural Resource Extension Program Leader. Dr. Schaefer's involvement in professional associations includes serving as president of the national Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals and treasurer of the Joint Council of Extension Professionals.