William S. Breffle

Biography

Dr. Breffle is an applied microeconomist specializing in environmental economics. Prior to joining Michigan Tech, he conducted economic research primarily for testimony for large Natural Resource Damage Assessments, typically at Superfund sites. He has done work in 13 states for a variety of stakeholders, and continues to work with State and Federal Trustees.  As a result, he brings practical and policy-relevant experience into Michigan Tech classrooms. Dr. Breffle regularly presents new research at national professional meetings and publishes in peer-reviewed books and journals, and brings grant funding to Michigan Tech. Recently, two of Dr. Breffle's journal articles were selected for the International Library of Environmental Economics and Policy book volumes as important and influential essays. In 2011, Dr. Breffle was a finalist for the Wells Fargo Teacher of the Year award in the School of Business and Economics.

Research Focus

The Great Lakes and their broader ecosystems help shape the industries, recreation, and culture of the people who live near them. The activities of those residents, in turn, affect the lakes and their ability to provide economic services. Dr. William S. Breffle, Associate Professor of Economics is conducting research that examines the long-term environmental and economic impact of human activity on the Great Lakes environment. Dr. Breffle expects that, ultimately, the research will aid in the development of policy management tools that sustain and protect the environmental and human-use services provided by these critical resources.