UAPress releases book on David Klein’s career

August 23, 2019

University Relations

The University of Alaska Press has released "The Making of an Ecologist: My Career in Alaska Wildlife Management and Conservation," by David Klein and edited by Karen Brewster.

David R. Klein is a leader in promoting the role of habitat in effective management of large hoofed mammals (ungulates), including deer, moose, caribou, mountain sheep, muskoxen, and mountain goats, animals that are vital to Alaska subsistence, hunting, and wildlife tourism.

"The Making of an Ecologist" tells the stories of Klein’s work and the inspiration behind the science. The book follows the evolution of Alaska’s wildlife management from territorial days to statehood and the era of big oil.

Klein’s lifetime of work touches a myriad of people and places. Many of his 67 graduate students have gone on to become successful wildlife managers and conservationists in Alaska and around the globe. Beyond Alaska, Klein worked in all of the Arctic countries, resulting in long-term collaborations with international colleagues.

The final section of the book emphasizes Klein’s philosophy, ethical approach to wildlife management and conservation, and the importance of cross-cultural understanding in an ever-changing global society.

David R. Klein is professor emeritus at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He was leader of the Alaska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit at the University of Alaska, Fairbanks from 1962 until 1991, and then a senior scientist with the unit until his retirement in 1997. He is the author of more than 125 published articles, papers, and book chapters.

Karen Brewster is a research associate with the oral history program at the Rasmuson Library. Her books include "The Whales, They Give Themselves: Conversations with Harry Brower, Sr." and "Boots, Bikes and Bombers: Adventures of Alaska Conservationist, Ginny Hill Wood," both from the University of Alaska Press.

For more information about this title and many more please visit www.uapress.alaska.edu or call 800-621-2736.