Retired UWSP professor explores wildlife ecology in new book
By Patrick Lynn
STEVENS POINT – Retired University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point professor Neil F. Payne is sharing his decades-long journey in wildlife ecology through his latest book, Wildlifer: Wisconsin Origin to Climate Change.
Published by UW-Stevens Point’s Cornerstone Press, the book examines the origins of Wisconsin’s wildlife profession, the state’s habitat diversity, and the importance of ecosystem management in the face of climate change.
“Marvelous writing, and exciting coverage over many years,” said Estelle Leopold, a biology professor at the University of Washington and daughter of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold.
Payne, an emeritus professor of wildlife ecology, spent much of his career working as a “wildlifer” across North America. His new book blends personal memoir with Wisconsin history and scientific analysis, guiding readers through the evolution of wildlife management as a profession. He explores topics such as the influence of conservationists like Aldo Leopold and John Muir, the role of wildlife education, and the ongoing need for habitat preservation.
A U.S. Marine Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, Payne has dedicated his life to conservation as a biologist, teacher, researcher, and author. His contributions to wildlife management highlight the connection between biodiversity and human society.
Wildlifer is available for purchase through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Cornerstone Press, a student-run publisher at UW-Stevens Point, is one of only four undergraduate-staffed literary presses in the nation and the only one in the Universities of Wisconsin system.