Richard W. Halsey is the director of the California Chaparral
Institute, a research and educational organization focusing
on the ecology of California’s shrubland ecosystems, the dynamics
of wildland fire in both natural and human communities, and
the importance of nature education. Mr. Halsey has taught
biology and natural science for over thirty years in both
public and private schools. His current research projects
include investigating the impact of increased fire frequency
on chaparral and other shrubland ecosystems and the importance
of local communities connecting with their surrounding, natural
landscapes.
Mr. Halsey also works with the San Diego Museum of Natural
History, publishes The Chaparralian, a quarterly newsletter
focusing on chaparral and wildfire issues in California, and
continues to teach natural history to school and community
groups throughout the state. He has given more than 300 presentations
over the past five years and assists in the development of
nature and wildfire education programs throughout the state.
He was awarded the 1991 Teacher of the Year in San Diego City
Schools. The second edition of his most recent book, Fire,
Chaparral, and Survival in Southern California, was published
in 2008. Mr. Halsey earned undergraduate degrees from the
University of California in environmental studies and anthropology.
During graduate work he received teaching credentials in life,
physical and social science and a masters in education. He
has also been trained as a Type II wildland firefighter.
About
Richard Halsey