The passing of a monumental figure from my early years

One of the very first projects that I worked on was with mountain goats in west-central Alberta.  It was an unusually long study that offered up the opportunity to really learn in depth of a single species, and in natural conditions, over seasons, and over years.  It was/is a most memorable experience - recalled with great satisfaction.  Research in the field is always pre- and post-ceded with lots of office and reading time.  And Ian McTaggart-Cowan was one of those authors, scripting his early studies with mountain goats.  So the story today of Dr. McTaggart-Cowan's passing at 99 years old is with some sorrow and sadness, but also recognition of a full life and lived well.  The full story can be read here.

Ian McTaggart-Cowen was dedicated to preserving B.C.’s natural bounty

Former UBC professor advocated conservation of resources before it was fashionable

• Share with friends
• Print or License
• Recommend |
  
  0 Times

•  
• Article
•  
• Comments
  
•  

Tom Hawthorn

VICTORIA — Globe and Mail UpdatePublished on Tuesday, Apr. 20, 2010 10:48PM EDTLast updated on Tuesday, Apr. 20, 2010 11:01PM EDT

A scholar and early activist in the cause of wildlife conservation, Ian McTaggart-Cowan informed generations of British Columbians about the natural wonders around them.

He encouraged management of nature’s bounty, a somewhat radical approach in a province where pillaging the seas, forests and wildlife seemed a privilege of residence.

The eminent zoologist produced hundreds of papers, pamphlets and books, yet it was undoubtedly his appearances on the fledgling medium of television that won his message its widest audience.