Raenhard Wesselschmidt, left, a Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) biologist and East Central College alumnus, provides a hands-on lesson on Chronic Wasting Disease's impact on deer to East Central College biology students during testing sessions at the Union campus. Students Adam Stevens, Addison Imhof, and Lily Purschke observe and participate as Wesselschmidt demonstrates key testing techniques, including lymph node extraction, estimating deer age based on tooth growth and wear, and completing lab submission documentation. The group is pictured in a lab setting with tools and materials on the table.

Biology Students Gain Hands-On Experience in Wildlife Conservation

December 13, 2024 | Alumni Spotlight Campus News

East Central College students are taking their biology studies to new heights through hands-on learning opportunities—made possible by resources just steps away from campus.

As an official Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) collection site, ECC has partnered with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to support white-tailed deer testing, giving students a front-row seat to real-world conservation efforts.

Raenhard Wesselschmidt, right, a Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) biologist and East Central College alumnus, guides ECC biology students during a hands-on Chronic Wasting Disease testing session at the Union campus. Students Addison Imhof, Lily Purschke, and Adam Stevens (left to right) observe and participate in testing procedures, including handling harvested deer heads. The group is pictured working in a lab setting, wearing lab coats and gloves, with tools and materials on the table.

For the past two deer seasons, ECC has served as a drop-off location where hunters can leave harvested deer heads for free CWD testing. Samples collected are sent to testing facilities, including the University of Missouri-Columbia, with results available online within weeks.

This year, Principles of Biology I and II students from Dr. Parvadha Acosta’s classes joined a critical wildlife monitoring project under the guidance of Kevin Dixon—ECC biology associate professor, experienced MDC volunteer, and avid deer hunter.

During three sessions so far, students have participated at varying levels, from observing the process to receiving hands-on guidance. Students involved include Ethan Agren, Alyvia Helm, Katelyn Temples, Addison Imhof, Trinity Morgan, Lily Purschke, and Adam Stevens. Instructor Dr. Clarissa Brown also took part in a testing session.

MDC biologist and ECC alumnus Raenhard Wesselschmidt introduced students to the impacts of CWD and demonstrated essential techniques, such as lymph node extraction, estimating deer age based on tooth growth and wear, and completing lab submission documentation.

Under his supervision, students practiced these techniques, gaining invaluable hands-on experience. Together, Wesselschmidt, Dixon, and the students processed 17 deer during one session. With deer hunting season running through January 15, students will have additional opportunities to participate before the 2024-2025 season concludes.

This partnership highlights ECC’s dedication to providing students with unique, experiential learning opportunities that connect classroom concepts to real-world challenges.

ECC students can earn an Associate of Arts degree in Biology and transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue careers in wildlife conservation, environmental science, zoology, public health, genetic research, ecology, biomedical research, and science education.

Learn more about ECC’s Biology pathway at www.eastcentral.edu/science/biology/.