Trevor Goward
Beyond his scientific work, Goward is an active environmental advocate, focusing on the conservation of Wells Gray Provincial Park and the protection of deep-snow caribou herds.
Goward's deep connection to his local environment is exemplified by his experiences living and working in close proximity to wilderness areas, including an incident where his dog played a crucial role in his rescue after an injury.
[6] Drawing inspiration from figures like Charles Darwin and Henry David Thoreau, Goward's approach emphasises direct observation and engagement with the natural world.
[6] Collaborating with Toby Spribille, a lichenologist at the University of Alberta, Goward's insights informed research that identified a second fungal partner in many lichens—a discovery published in the journal Science in July 2016.
[5] Goward has spent significant time studying and advocating for the conservation of Wells Gray Park, where the Canadian biologist R. Yorke Edwards conducted groundbreaking research on caribou and moose in the 1950s and 1960s.
[12] Goward's work has been significantly influenced by R. Yorke Edwards, a pioneer in wildlife biology, nature education, and museum curation in Canada.
The library is named in honour of Edwards and Ralph Ritcey, whose early work on Wells Gray's wildlife created a solid foundation for future research.
[12] In addition to his scientific work, Goward has been active in environmental causes, opposing plans to dam the Clearwater River in the early 1970s and advocating for the conservation of Wells Gray Park.
Goward explained how the Clearwater Valley serves as a migratory route for many large species, emphasizing the importance of maintaining wildlife corridors to preserve ecological integrity.
The dog alerted Goward's partner, Curtis Björk, who then organised a rescue effort involving neighbours and the Upper Clearwater Fire Brigade.
[12] Goward and his then-partner Helen Knight donated land to Thompson Rivers University for the development of the Wells Gray TRU Wilderness Centre.
[3] Goward envisions Edgewood becoming a hub for naturalist education and research, reflecting his commitment to sustainable living and the importance of local natural exploration.
[18] Goward's work in lichenology includes extensive naturalistic observation, interdisciplinary approaches, and the integration of traditional knowledge with scientific inquiry, as evidenced by his respect for First Nations people's understanding of the natural world.
[21] Goward envisions promoting Wells Gray Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site to highlight its international significance and support the local economy.
His dedication to conservation and education is reflected in his land donation to Thompson Rivers University for a research centre and his ongoing efforts to engage with a broad audience through writing and hosting discussions at his home, Edgewood Blue.
[6] Goward advocates for a shift from what he calls the "Enlightenment narrative" to an "Enlivenment" perspective, which combines reductionist science with holistic, ecosystem-based approaches traditionally practised by Indigenous peoples.
