Jake Merkley LAEP B+MLA https://profile.usu.edu/images/jake-merkley-350.jpg Jake Merkley is currently enrolled as a B+MLA student in the LAEP department. While enrolling in the department as a sophomore his interests were centered in restoring, creating, and protecting natural systems especially relating to fresh water ecosystems. While pursing his undergraduate degree his interests grew as he studied urban development growth, and how it is influenced by natural systems. This growing interest lead him to enroll in the department’s B+MLA program and pursue a thesis opportunity with Dr. Todd Johnson, Dr. David Evans, and the City of Nibley here in Cache Valley, UT. His thesis efforts are in hope that it can inspire and direct the development of Nibley’s future Town Center to best serve the local community.  Jake’s desire is to have most of his professional career in Cache Valley. He hopes to serve as a future leader in the development of Cache Valley, and be able to help the area to continue to grow into strong cities and communities, and protect the vital and beloved natural systems.