This biography explores the fascinating trajectory of amateur naturalist Frank Farley (1870-1949), who in the first half of the twentieth century made significant contributions to the fields of ornithology and environmental conservation. An enthusiastic booster for rural development in western Canada, and Camrose, Alberta, in particular, Farley was also a passionate naturalist at a time when few others held such views. He supported and managed newly designated migratory bird sanctuaries, networked with expert ornithologists across the continent, mentored young people (including famous Canadian writer and grand-nephew Farley Mowat), and published widely to scientific and popular audiences. The book’s description of Farley’s career shows how a single individual can make substantive contributions to wildlife conservation while acknowledging tensions between amateur and professional ornithologists. The wide range of activities in which Farley engaged shows the complexities of rural life in Alberta and also reveals that concern over environmental change is not new. Frank Farley and the Birds of Alberta adds a stimulating new layer to a complex western Canadian past, and is an invaluable resource for scholars and readers versed in Canadian environmental history, climate change, and ecological activism.

Glen Hvenegaard is Professor of Environmental Science at the University of Alberta.

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Jeremy Mouat is Professor Emeritus at the University of Alberta.

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Heather Marshall is the instant #1 bestselling author of Looking for Jane. She has a master’s degree in Canadian history and political science and worked in politics and communications before turning her attention to her true passion: storytelling. Heather lives with her family near Toronto. Visit her website at HeatherMarshallAuthor.com or connect with her on Twitter @HMarshallAuthor and Instagram @HeatherMarshallAuthor.

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"This well-researched book is successful in establishing Farley as a significant figure in early Canadian ornithology and as a significant naturalist of his time.” James Murton, Nipissing University

"This book is an in-depth study of amateur ornithologist Frank Farley and his social environment, set against the changing backdrop of environmental activism and ecological knowledge during the first half of the 20th century." Eric Mills, Dalhousie University

"Frank Farley sheds light on a leading naturalist and his network of ornithologists and birders during a transformative moment in Alberta history." Joanna Dean, Carleton University