Two Cents worth here...I am a federal biologist, and do research on freshwater endangered species. I have 20 years in, and I make a good living. My boss is a GS-14 (look up Federal Pay Scale), and he has a bachelors degree. We recently advertised a job at the GS 7/9 level, and got two applicants. So its really a mixed bag-if you want to swim with the fishes every day-pay is bad. I spoke with two veterinarians at the aquarium in tampa, and they make about as much as the GS-9 position above. If you are willing to move, start at a temporary position to get your feet wet (pun intended), your options are many. I have a BS in Fisheries, and my MS was a limnology project. I enjoy going to work every day, which is about the most we can hope for-after all they don't call it fun, they call it work...;)