Scott received an undergraduate degree in biology from Saint Olaf College and a master’s degree in ecosystem ecology from the University of Wyoming. As a research ecologist he has studied a variety of ecosystems across the northern, central, and southern Rockies and specifically the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Scott has participated in extensive winter wolf research with the Yellowstone Wolf Project, gaining intimate insights into the elusive gray wolf as the species’ reintroduction shifts portions of the Yellowstone ecosystem toward conditions that would have defined it several centuries ago. Scott guides Nat Hab's Yellowstone wolf expeditions, Churchill polar bear expeditions, and Alaska wildlife safaris. He enjoys developing his expertise as a naturalist by engaging with wild lands in all seasons, consciously connecting to his own ecological footprint, participating in traditional or "old ways,” and pursuing “simple living” techniques. Scott is excited to share his passion and experience in the natural world and to facilitate others' enduring connections to wild landscapes on the earth and within ourselves.

Praise from Natural Habitat travelers:

P. Motch
"Scott Laursen was our trip leader - he is the best guide we've ever traveled with - so knowledgeable, generous with his time and knowledge, spending time equally with each person and so attentive to each one's needs and interests. He is passionate about his work and relishes sharing interesting, relevant information. He's a natural teacher. He always went the extra step to be sure everything went smoothly; he was so well prepared and organized."

P. LeCompte
“Our guide, Scott, was utterly BRILLIANT! On his own each day he brought an amazing scope for viewing and a duffle bag of books for reading which really enhanced the experience. His knowledge on everything from animals, to environment, to native culture, to arctic economics was unbelievable and all shared in a digestible friendly way."

B. Palen
“Scott was a marvel!! His knowledge base was amazing and his desire to share enormous. His enthusiasm was contagious and continual. He couldn't do enough for all of us and even stayed up into the "wee hours" hoping for a break in the clouds so he could wake us to see "the lights"! This young man is truly a credit to his generation. I enjoyed him thoroughly and feel that he worked tirelessly to make our trip the joy it was for all."

M. Bender
“Scott just did an outstanding job in all areas. I can't think of any area in which we weren't pleased. He went above and beyond to check in with everyone and satisfy their needs. His knowledge level is exemplary and he shares it with passion."

C. Mann
“Scott was just wonderful! He took extra strides to ensure we had one of the best experiences of our lives. Always enthusiastic. Not sure when he actually got sleep! I enjoyed his sharing of his own experiences in relation to wildlife and wild spaces. Would love to have him as leader on other expeditions."