Merlin Hanauer is an Assistant Professor of Economics at Sonoma State University’s School of Business and Economics. Merlin's research focuses on the intersection of conservation and poverty and analyzes the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of environmental policy. He employs extensive use of geographic information systems (GIS), and quasi-experimental and experimental design to elucidate policy impacts. Merlin holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Humboldt State University and a master’s degree and Ph.D. in Economics from Georgia State University.