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Choosing A Conservation Vocation or a Bureaucratic Career: Your Personal Choices and the Environmental Consequences

by Richard (Dick) Kroger

162 pages; quality trade paperback (softcover); catalogue #05-1920; ISBN 1-4120-7009-0; US$14.39, C$16.55, EUR11.22, £7.44

Conservation vocationists can protect our public natural resources from unnecessary degradation by counteracting the negative governmental decisions and actions taken by self-serving, bureaucratic, agency careerists.

About the Book

This book was written specifically to explain why government conservation, environmental, and land management agencies do such a poor job of protecting and managing our public natural resources and how this malady can be cured. The author discusses the fundamental human differences between conservation vocationists and bureaucratic careerists and how their actions positively and negatively impact our natural resources, respectively. He explains how dedicated vocationists can be effective in protecting our natural resources from unnecessary degradation within government agencies and how they can counteract negative environmental actions taken by bureaucratic careerists, who always work to promote their own self-interests. The book also addresses how non-profit conservation groups and individual vocationists can become more successful in protecting our natural resources and preventing unnecessary environmental degradation caused by bureaucratic careerists within government agencies.

The author takes the reader through over 40 years of his life while working as a conservationist within four federal agencies, state government, numerous non-profit groups, and as a private citizen on the East Coast, West Coast, Inter-mountain West, and Midwest. He uses his professional and private observations, successes, and failures to demonstrate how current and future conservation vocationists can survive within government agencies while still effectively combating bureaucratic careerists and providing maximum protection for our natural resources.

Readers are provided guidance on how to become successful conservation vocationists by learning to understand the driving forces of human nature and how to effectively communicate and use finesse with key people to ensure proper management of our natural resources. Insight is given about various regular and unique employment opportunities, some of which are unconventional but would provide for maximizing natural resource protection during ones lifetime. He concludes by explaining what specific changes are necessary to make conservation and land management agencies more effective in protecting our natural resources.

Review

Reviewed by Jim Guthrie

"Before Kroger arrived on the scene, we lowly Fishery Technicians were never included as co-authors for articles about the published research findings we worked on with our biologist and Ph.D. supervisors. Kroger broke this elitist tradition (and took criticism as a result of his convictions) and gave me co-authorship credit on every mutually researched scientific study and findings published in peer reviewed journals. This new recognition changed my life and I subsequently coined the phrase, 'Before Kroger and After Kroger', to describe periods in my career. I had finally come across a research biologist who was not afraid to tell the truth and who stood up for what was right. Some of the more elitist researchers will disagree with what he has written. Unfortunately, there is too much truth in his book about the NMFS's Beaufort, NC Fisheries Laboratory, and at times I even try to block some it out of my mind. From the personal history presented in his book, it is obvious that Kroger went on being Kroger wherever he went."

Jim Guthrie, NMFS (Retired), 120 Pelican Lane, Harkers Island, NC 28531

Reviewed by Mike Olson

"I strongly encourage everyone who is considering a career in natural resource management to read this book. The book also provides an excellent opportunity to those of us mid-way through our professional careers to renew our commitment to an environmental ethic. There may be some biasis based on my past association with Kroger, but I could not wait to turn the pages to read what he would say next. Kroger's perspective provides an inextricable linkage between the decisions made while on the job to the long-term consequences on the landscape. This book will probably scare the hell out of some of the most ardent government bureaucrats hiding out in the halls of our most trusted natural resource agencies. At least, I hope it does."

Mike Olson, Missouri River Coordinator, USFWS, 3425 Miriam Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58501
701-250-4481 (O) 471-1344 (C), 355-8550 (F)

Reviewed by Chuck Neal

"Powerful.... Credible.... Inspirational.... This book should be required reading and discussion material for all those in and entering the natural resource conservation fields.

Chuck Neal, Ecologist; SCS, USFS, BLM (Retired), and author of "Grizzlies In The Mist", 1526 Alger Avenue, Cody, WY 82414

Reviewed by Bill Bicknell

"Dick Kroger and I applied for the same conservation biologist position in 1988. I had worked on the project for 8 years. He had no first hand experience or understanding of the complex project. He was selected. Little did I realize what an opportunity this was for I was given the chance to work with one of the most dedicated, thoughtful biologists I've known during three decades of work on natural resource issues. His dedication to all things wild, willingness to take risks, and work ethic are truly inspirational. I am blessed to say I had the privilege to work with Dick Kroger.

Dick's book should be required reading for all aspiring conservation students and natural resource professionals. His writings provide an essential understanding, based on the scars gained from conservation battles throughout the nation, of the path that leads to a rewarding career. He presents important insights about the workings of government agencies, what makes their employees tick, and highlights productive ways to address bureaucratic pitfalls that often stymie the completion of beneficial projects. Throughout the book, Dick provides readers unique opportunities to gain the wisdom from his life-long commitment to protect this nation's cherished natural resources."

Bill Bicknell, Fish and Wildlife Biologist, USFWS, 3425 Miriam Avenue, Bismarck, ND 58501

Reviewed by Richard Morat

"From someone who was a co-worker, hunting buddy, and personal friend with Dick back in the mid and late 1970s during his Sacramento FWS experience, the reading of this book was, even after 35 years as a fish and wildlife biologist, a life-changing experience for me. While reading the book, I went from an attitude of 'this is pretty radical' to 'this makes perfect sense.' I was left with a compelling case-for-action that every individual needs an understanding of personal mission to keep 'first things first.' Dick, back in the 1970s and obviously still today has his life in order * family, spiritual beliefs, and then work. Natural resource work, or better yet a conservation vocation, even at rank three, is or should be dead serious business for us all. Anyone, regardless of age, who is interested in balancing life with a conservation vocation, or simply working in a federal/state or local government bureaucracy, will benefit from reading this book. It contains some of the most balanced and level-headed advice I have received. Reading this clearly written and simply stated book will draw the reader into an introspective evaluation of his/her life with an emphasis on the future. We owe Dick for sharing his experiences with us."

Richard Morat, USFWS Fish and Wildlife Biologist, 2821 Berkshire Way, Sacramento, CA 95864

Reviewed by Felix Smith

"Dick Kroger served as a dedicated "combat biologist" for me from 1974 - 79. He was an effective point person and had a passion to do what was necessary to protect and conserve fish and wildlife habitat and resources under very difficult political situations in California. His book should be a must read for all those contemplating or studying for a career in conservation and for current natural resource professionals working in and outside of government agencies. It gives an honest glimpse into his entire life, his career choices, and his life-long passion for fish and wildlife and pursuit of ecosystem sustainability during over 40 years as a science based fish and wildlife biologist in many regions of the country. Kroger coined the term "Conservation Vocationists" to identify those professionals dedicated to proper natural resource management on a 24/7 life-long basis versus "Bureaucratic Careerists" who work 8-hour days in the field of conservation but are motivated mostly by their own selfish personal goals of achieving more money, power, and prestige. He explains the primary reasons why government conservation and environmental agencies do such a poor job managing and protecting our natural resources and postulates that the general lack of ethics by Bureaucratic Careerists in state and federal agencies has caused more needless environmental and resource degradation than any other single factor. His book makes the truth known to those in political power and those who actually own our natural resources, and it tells Conservation Vocationists in and outside of government how to effectively combat bad agency decisions."

Felix Smith, FWS (Retired), 4720 Talus Way, Carmichael, CA 95608

Reviewed by Tony Dean

"I have covered state and federal natural resource agencies in the Upper Midwest for more than three decades and agree with Kroger's assessment that there are two types of biologists -- conservation vocationists, or as my friend Ted Williams calls them, "sticklebacks," and bureaucratic careerists. I have little trouble fitting most I know into one of the two categories. Unfortunately, most fall into the bureaucratic group. Without the conservation vocationists, much more natural resource damage would occur as the bureaucratic careerists forge ahead without rocking the political boat in their quest for more personal money, power, and prestige at the expense of our environment. Kroger's book pulls no punches and is a good read for anyone who cares about the outdoors and the proper management of our natural resources."

Tony Dean, Executive Producer of "Tony Dean Outdoors" TV series and "Dakota Backroads" radio shows, 1013 North Grand, Pierre, SD 57501

Reviewed by Wayde Schafer

"Dick Kroger is really on to something with his book. He presents an insider look at the bureaucratic in-fighting at play when it comes to managing this country's natural resources. As a 'combat biologist'and a 'conservation vocationist' who was in the trenches during some of this nation's toughest environmental battles he brings a perspective to the discourse that few can. I first met him in the early 1990s while we were trying to form the Teddy Roosevelt Group of the Sierra Club in North Dakota. Dick became the vice-chair and even gave the group its name. We quickly learned that when a campaign became bogged down we could turn to Dick and he would cut through all the whining and tell us what needed to be done; whether we wanted to hear it or not. And that's what comes through with this book. At key points throughout his career Dick would cut through the bureaucracy and have a huge impact for the resource. What also comes through in the book is the mischievous delight he experienced when he 'got' a bureaucrat or a politician. It's obvious that Dick was paying attention as he went through life and I'm better at what I do because I had the privilege of tapping into that wisdom while working on environmental campaigns with him. This book offers the reader an opportunity to also tap into that wisdom."

Wayde Schafer, Regional Representative, Sierra Club, 311 East Thayer #113, Bismarck, ND 58501

Reviewed by Jeff Denton

"Let Kroger's impeccable ethics and courage during his lifelong commitment to responsible conservation of our incredibly rich and under appreciated natural resources inspire you and serve as a gauge for assessing your own dedication. Even in times as dark as these, there are opportunities for dedicated conservationists to prevent creation of wastelands by multinational conglomerates pursuing personal enrichment at the expense of our natural resources. Kroger's book is not only a must read/re-read for students to contemplate and formulate individual and personal dedication to their chosen vocation but also for all natural resource professionals to help them reevaluate and reinvigorate their original zeal (to continuously do the "right thing") that is constantly eroded and threatened over time by the minefields and daily diversions of the bureaucracy. It also lets dedicated individuals know they are not alone in their frustrations, the world is a better place because of their noble choices, and how to find the courage for perseverance."

Jeff Denton, BLM Wildlife Biologist, 10101 Eshamy Bay Drive, Anchorage, AK 99515

Reviewed by Jim Posewitz

"Kroger's book exposes the political corruption that continues to frustrate those charged with the custodial care of America's natural resources. In Kroger's work we are treated to the tragedies and triumphs of an individual whose conservation ethic could not be compromised to political expediency. The sense of tragedy is compounded with the realization that fish, wildlife, and the environment pay the ultimate price. Former political icon Sam Rayburn is credited with advising those wishing to prosper in government life that 'to get along - go along.' Kroger documents, in detail and straight-forward prose, the price being extracted from people that believe in a higher standard of public service and gives us an honest accounting of the price a precious handful of dedicated souls are paying every day for our unique American relationship with fish, wildlife, and the landscape essential to their survival.. This book is another 911-call to the people in this democracy who have structured a system of laws designed to protect what we value. It is an alarm telling us that our natural resource management systems are infected with political corruption and bureaucratic expedience. Read this book, but more importantly, let it inspire you to take action in defense of the American conservation ethic and those hardy souls still out there working in the people's interest.

Jim Posewitz, Orion The Hunters' Institute; Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (Retired); and author of "Beyond Fair Chase," "Inherit the Hunt," and "Rifle in Hand; How Wildlife in America was Saved," 219 Vawter Street, Helena, MT 59601

Reviewed by Tory Taylor

"Dick Kroger's "Choosing a Conservation Career..." is a message that needs to be told over and over again. The lessons in this book are invaluable for conservationists, young and old, to learn how to negotiate the maze of obstacles and achieve one's life goals in natural resource conservation."

Tory Taylor, former President Wyoming Wildlife Federation and Budweiser "Outdoorsman of the Year 2000". 6360 Higway 26, Dubois, WY 82513.

Reviewed by Meredith Taylor

"I first met Dick Kroger in the mid-1980s during his BLM job in Worland. He made an impression on me then as a committed conservationist and continues to impress me as someone trying to make a difference. In his book, he gives great insight into how he not only survived, but succeeded in his career as a conservation vocationist. Even in retirement, his mission to restore his 160 acre Sandberg Farm to native tall grass prairie demonstrates his commitment and dedication to conservation. Kroger is an inspiration to us all."

Meredith Taylor, Greater Yellowstone Coalition 20th Anniversary Award winner and Wyoming Outdoor Council Wildlife Program Director. 6360 Higway 26, Dubois, WY 82513

About the Author

Richard (Dick) Kroger chose his life's work as a natural resource conservationist while in his mid-teens and he entered the Army immediately after graduating from high school in 1958 to save money as a paratrooper for future schooling. He worked his way through college and earned a B.S. degree from South Dakota State University in Wildlife in 1965 and a M.S. degree in Zoology/Fisheries from the University of Wyoming in 1967. Karen (his wife) and their three children spent the next seven years in coastal North Carolina where Dick worked for the National Marine Fisheries Service. He conducted research on the migrations and population dynamics of Atlantic and Gulf menhaden in sixteen states from Maine to Mexico and authored and co-authored 19 scientific articles in peer reviewed journals. They then transferred to the Fish and Wildlife Service in Sacramento where Dick assumed the duties of a "combat biologist" assigned to protect San Francisco Bay, the Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta, and Central Valley of California from the impacts of wetland destruction and massive water diversions. It was during these five years spent working for a committed natural resource supervisor when Dick's life changed forever from being a self-serving bureaucratic careerist to that of a conservation vocationist dedicated to protecting our public natural resources.

They then followed a family dream to return to the Inter-mountain West when Dick took a reduction-in-grade and accepted a position in Worland, Wyoming. He pursued his conservation vocation within the bureaucratic careerist dominated Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for nearly 10 years. He, along with other committed conservationist, helped form a small group of BLM activists who convinced and finessed the Worland District managers to prepare forthright grazing Environmental Impact Statements and to become more active and effective in protecting their 3-million acres of public land natural resources. Dick and Karen then moved to Bismarck, North Dakota in 1988 where he assumed duties as the supervisory/lead biologist for the Fish and Wildlife Service on the environmentally controversial Garrison Diversion Unit water development project.

In 1994, he and Karen retired and moved back onto her childhood family farm which straddles the Yellow Medicine River within the "Black Desert" of Southwest Minnesota. They converted the intensively cultivated and eroding, corn/soybean rotation farm into a perpetually protected 160-acre oasis of tallgrass prairie and improved wildlife habitat. From this home base, Dick pursues life as a volunteer conservation vocationist committed to cleaning up the Minnesota River which is the key to also improving the environmental quality-of-life for all inhabitants in the intensively farmed 11-million acre watershed. He actively works within six non-profit conservation groups to protect our natural resources and is a dues paying member of over 25 others. This book represents another cog in the wheel of his life as a conservation vocationist.

Excerpts