States of Nature: Conserving Canada's Wildlife in the Twentieth Century

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

This is an academic review of efforts to conserve and manage wildlife in
Canada from 1900 to 1970. The history is told in text and archival
photos, giving a well-rounded view of our parents’ and grandparents’
relationship with nature.

The work looks at the role of both government agencies and private
individuals and organizations that influenced Canadians’ attitudes
toward animals and birds, and the impact of wildlife conservation on the
social, economic, and political issues of the day. For example,
conservation policies were, generally, directed at preserving game
(deer, moose, bear, ducks, etc.) for recreational use—that is, for
those hunting for sport. This was in conflict with the interests of
those—usually rural residents and First Nations people—who wanted to
shoot game for consumption or to protect their crops and livestock. Thus
the evolving game laws served to deepen the division between classes
(leisure vs. farmer) and urban–rural populations. All animals not of
interest to sports hunters were considered vermin and fair game for
unlimited slaughter; these includes wolves, coyotes, and cougars, among
others.

Part of the book is given to case studies, descriptions of individuals
who attained some prominence in the early conservation and environmental
movement. Here we’re introduced to such well-known conservationists as
Farley Mo-wat, Jack Miner, Charles Elton, and Aldo Leopold. The role of
non-government organizations such as the Hudson’s Bay Company and
Ducks Unlimited is also integrated into the history.

The research is extensive, with full credit to sources. The style is
readable if not exciting. An excellent bibliography and comprehensive
index make the work usable as a reference for students of wildlife
management, conservation, and ecology.