Conservation Confidential : A Biologist Investigates the Clash Between Progress and Nature

A powerful call to rethink how we value natural resources―not as commodities to exploit, but as gifts to protect for future generations.

Conservation Confidential is a compelling exploration of the clash between environmental stewardship and human ambition. Drawing on decades as a biologist, Lorne Fitch reflects on the complex dynamics between science, industry, and development. With wit, sharp critique, and heartfelt storytelling, he contrasts the priorities of industries like forestry, mining, and agriculture with the values of conservationists, asking: just because something can be done, should it?

Through personal insights and vivid anecdotes, Fitch examines the moral and ecological consequences of unchecked industrial growth while championing the urgent need for balance and foresight. His essays challenge readers to reconsider what progress truly means in a world where ecological boundaries are rapidly being surpassed.

A call to action and a celebration of nature, Conservation Confidential inspires change by raising awareness, nurturing empathy, and encouraging responsibility toward imperilled species and ecosystems―reminding us to treasure and protect the places we call home.

Lorne Fitch has been a biologist for over 50 years. He has criss-crossed the province, learned the landscape, investigated fish and wildlife populations, and engaged with ranchers, farmers, industry, and bureaucrats over conservation. His insights are the result of much scar tissue. Lorne is a professional biologist, a retired provincial fish and wildlife scientist, and a former adjunct professor at the University of Calgary. He is also the co-founder of the riparian stewardship initiative called Cows and Fish. For his work on conservation he has been part of three Alberta Emerald awards, an Alberta Order of the Bighorn Award, and a Canadian Environmental Gold Award, with additional recognition from the Wildlife Society, the Society for Range Management, the Alberta Society of Professional Biologists, the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and the Alberta Wilderness Association. His books with RMB include Streams of Consequence: Dispatches from the Conservation World, Travels Up the Creek: A Biologist’s Search for a Paddle, and Conservation Confidential: A Biologist's Take on the Clash Between Progress and Nature. Lorne lives in Lethbridge, Alberta.