Ramblings in the Field of Conservation

In this autobiography, Elliott S. Barker gives a graphic insight into why he was often called “Mr. Conservation.” Starting with his early boyhood days and ending with his thoughts on the future, the book covers throughout the influence he had on the wildlife scene. This impact while more strongly felt in New Mexico, also spread into national and international circles. He was friend and co-worker of many of the greats in conservation. He could call Aldo Leopold, Ding Darling, Seth Gordon, and Ira Gabrielson his friends. He took an active part in the early days of conservation and the movement is where it is today because of him and other strong-willed and dedicated men and women like him. Barker gives you an insight as to his thinking, details his early background years, and then takes us through his twenty-two years as Director of the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish. Throughout the book are related incidents and anecdotes that show his strong character and dedicated interest in conservation in general and wildlife in particular. He lists the various programs that were initiated by him during his tenure such as providing wildlife for the public land, habitat restoration, the introduction of new exotic species, the biopolitical problems in fisheries management and probably the most widely known item, that of his involvement in the dedication of Smokey Bear as a national symbol for fire protection and wildlife preservation. 3