Trevor Goward (born 18 November 1952) is a Canadian environmentalist and lichenologist known for his contributions to lichenology and his environmental conservation, particularly in British Columbia. Goward has authored numerous publications on lichens, including taxonomic guides, and has conducted observational studies that challenge established scientific understandings of lichen symbiosis. Despite lacking formal training in biology, he has served as the curator of the University of British Columbia's lichen herbarium since 1989 and has had several lichen species named in his honour.
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. He has initiated several educational programmes and research projects, including the Edwards-Ritcey Online Library Project and the Deertrails Naturalist Program, and the Wells Gray Education and Research Centre. In addition to scientific inquiry, Goward incorporates philosophical and spiritual perspectives in his views, advocating for what he terms an "enlivenment" perspective in understanding the natural world. His work demonstrates the potential impact of citizen science and passionate individuals on scientific understanding and conservation efforts. 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.
Goward discovered lichens in his early twenties, as part of a self-directed study where he dedicated each year to a different facet of the natural world. Before focusing on lichens, he had studied astronomy, insects, birds, vascular plants, and mushroom-forming fungi.[5] His career shifted towards lichenology in 1976 when he began studying the lichens of Wells Gray Provincial Park, which had interested him since his first summer job there in 1971. His self-directed education in lichens resulted in the authorship of three books on the subject, over 80 peer-reviewed papers, the naming of two dozen lichen species, and several species named in his honour. Despite lacking formal training in biology, his expertise is recognised internationally, and he has served as the curator of the UBC lichen herbarium since 1989.[3]
Scientific contributions
Goward's work has challenged longstanding scientific understandings through observational studies and thought experiments in lichenology. Residing near Wells Gray Provincial Park, his connection to the natural environment, coupled with his dedication to lichen study, has helped challenge long-established ideas regarding lichen symbiosis.[6]
Drawing inspiration from figures like Charles Darwin and Henry David Thoreau, Goward's approach emphasises direct observation and engagement with the natural world. His work has helped reveal complex symbiotic relationships within lichens, contributing to a shift in understanding their biology. His observations in Wells Gray Provincial Park, an area rich in biodiversity and home to diverse lichen species, have led to the identification of new species named in his honour and the publication of three taxonomic guides to lichens.[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. This research challenged the traditional understanding of lichen symbiosis and opened new avenues for studying symbiotic relationships across biology.[6] Between 1995 and 2009, Goward served on the lichen subcommittee of the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC).[7]
Goward's writings explore both scientific and philosophical perspectives on lichens. He has published a series of essays called "Twelve Readings on the Lichen Thallus" on his blog "Ways of Enlichenment," which outline his philosophical views on lichens and their relationship to broader ecological and philosophical concepts.[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. Like Edwards, Goward worked as a naturalist in the park for many years and has dedicated his life to research and public education in the area.[12]
In 1984, Goward built a home on four hectares adjacent to Wells Gray Park and developed the property into an outdoor campus for naturalists. This approach echoes Edwards's emphasis on hands-on engagement with nature and commitment to environmental education.[12]
Goward resides in Edgewood Blue, adjacent to Wells Gray Park.
Goward's work has been significantly influenced by R. Yorke Edwards, a pioneer in wildlife biology, nature education, and museum curation in Canada. Goward has cited Edwards as an important influence on his environmental work. In recognition of Edwards's contributions, Goward initiated the Edwards-Ritcey Online Library Project. This project aims to digitise and make available online over 250 reports, papers, and books pertaining to Wells Gray Park. 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. He co-founded the Friends of Wells Gray Park and played a role in establishing the Wells Gray Education and Research Centre, which operates out of the former Upper Clearwater schoolhouse.[3]
In an interview with The Land Conservancy, Goward discussed his involvement in the Clearwater Wetlands and Wildlife Corridor campaign. He described the natural history of his property, shaped by glacial movements 11,000 years ago, which now supports a diverse wetland ecosystem. 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. Goward donated his property, Edgewood Blue, to The Land Conservancy to help establish a wildlife corridor near Wells Gray Park.[13]
After discovering two new lichen species near Clearwater, B.C., Goward auctioned their naming rights to raise funds for conservation projects. The goal was to raise $350,000 for the Ancient Forest Alliance and The Land Conservancy to protect B.C.'s old-growth forests and expand Wells Gray Provincial Park.[14]
In October 2019, while hiking near his home, Goward dislocated his shoulder after falling. Unable to return home due to pain and approaching dusk, he sent his seven-year-old Australian Shepherd, Purple, to seek help. The dog alerted Goward's partner, Curtis Björk, who then organised a rescue effort involving neighbours and the Upper Clearwater Fire Brigade. Björk followed Purple back to Goward's location, where they found him suffering from shock and hypothermia. Wells Gray Search and Rescue was contacted, and after about 14 hours from the initial fall, Goward was helped down the mountain on foot. The incident demonstrated Purple's crucial role in the rescue and underscored the utility of GPS equipment in local rescue operations.[15][16]
Caribou conservation efforts
Goward has monitored and advocated for the conservation of deep-snow caribou herds in British Columbia. He has closely observed the Wells Gray South caribou herd for decades, documenting its decline from approximately 350 animals to about 140 over a 20-year period.[17]
Goward argues that government-sanctioned logging in core caribou habitat amounts to what he terms "designer extinction." He points out that while about 40% of the Wells Gray South herd's core range is within a provincial park, only one-fifth of its extended range is protected, leaving the herd vulnerable to human-induced predation resulting from clearcut logging.[17]
Goward launched a website focused on the decline of deep-snow mountain caribou, attributing their endangerment to logging practices. The site details decades of resource decisions that have negatively impacted caribou herds and criticises what Goward sees as government-orchestrated extinction.[17]
Goward has highlighted the importance of old-growth forests for caribou survival, particularly the role of arboreal hair lichen as a winter food source. He notes that logging of old-growth forests at lower elevations has disrupted traditional caribou migration patterns and food sources.[17]
Educational initiatives
In 1991, with the help of many others and the involvement of the University College of the Cariboo (now Thompson Rivers University), Goward established the Wells Gray Education and Research Centre. This initiative aligns with Edwards' lifelong commitment to environmental education and research.[12]
On 5 October 2013, Goward organised "Yorke Edwards' Day in Wells Gray", a tribute to British Columbia's "Father of Interpretation". A highlight of the event was the sod-turning ceremony for the Wells Gray TRU Wilderness Centre.[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.[13]
In collaboration with The Land Conservancy of British Columbia, Goward launched the Deertrails Naturalist Programme in May 2019. This program is described as "an intergenerational, place-based learning opportunity designed to facilitate the transfer of naturalist knowledge, both scientific and traditional".[5]
Since 2008, Goward and his partner Curtis Björk have organised a series of "lichen revival workshops" at their property, Edgewood Blue, and other locations. These workshops bring together professional lichenologists, students, and amateur enthusiasts to discuss lichen taxonomy, ecology, and conservation. The events feature field trips, laboratory work, and lectures from guest experts. Topics have included lichen symbiosis, species identification, and the role of lichens as environmental indicators. These workshops bring together lichen researchers and enthusiasts for discussions on lichen taxonomy, ecology, and conservation, furthering Goward's goal of increasing public engagement with lichenology.[18]
Recognition and impact
The aquatic lichen Peltigera gowardii is one of several taxa named after Goward.
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.[6]
Goward envisions promoting Wells Gray Park as a UNESCO World Heritage Site to highlight its international significance and support the local economy. His efforts focus on understanding and conserving the natural environment, demonstrating the contributions individuals outside traditional academic pathways can make to science and conservation. Through his consulting business, Enlichened Consulting Ltd., Goward continues to contribute to the scientific community and public perceptions of wilderness conservation and the intricate world of lichens.[3]
Legacy and philosophy
Beyond research, Goward aims to increase biological literacy and foster a deeper connection between people and the natural environment. 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.[5]
Selected publications
A complete listing of Goward's publications is available on the Edgewood Wild website.[22] Some representative or highly cited publications follow:
Goward, T. (1986). "Brodoa, a new lichen genus in the Parmeliaceae". Bryologist. 89 (3): 219–223. doi:10.2307/3243288. JSTOR3243288.
Goward, T.; Ahti, T. (1992). "Macrolichens and their zonal distribution in Wells Gray Provincial Park and its vicinity, British Columbia, Canada". Acta Botanica Fennica. 147: 1–60.
Goward, Trevor; McCune, Bruce; Meidinger, Del (1994). The Lichens of British Columbia: Illustrated Keys. Part 1 — Foliose and Squamulose Species. Victoria, B.C.: Ministry of Forests Research Program. pp.1–190. ISBN0-7726-2194-2. OCLC31651418.
Goward, Trevor (1999). The Lichens of British Columbia: Illustrated Keys. Part 2–Fruticose Species. Victoria, B.C.: Ministry of Forests, Research Program. pp.1–327. ISBN0-7726-2194-2. OCLC31651418.
Goward, Trevor; Arsenault, André (2018). "Calicioid diversity in humid inland British Columbia may increase into the 5th century after stand initiation". The Lichenologist. 50 (5): 555–569. doi:10.1017/S0024282918000324.
Peltigera is a genus of approximately 100 species of foliose lichens in the family Peltigeraceae. Commonly known as the dog or pelt lichens, species of Peltigera are often terricolous, but can also occur on moss, trees, rocks, and many other substrates in many parts of the world.
Irwin M. Brodo is an emeritus scientist at the Canadian Museum of Nature, in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. He is an authority on the identification and biology of lichens. Irwin Brodo was honored in 1994 with an Acharius Medal presented to him by the International Association for Lichenology.
Catherine Hickson is a Canadian volcanologist, formerly with the Geological Survey of Canada, part of Natural Resources Canada. Since 2014, she has been the chief operating officer for Dajin Resources Corp. and president, Tuya Terra Geo Corp. Hickson studied at the University of British Columbia and received her PhD in geology and volcanology in 1987.
Bryoria fremontii is a dark brown, horsehair lichen that grows hanging from trees in western North America, and northern Europe and Asia. It grows abundantly in some areas, and is an important traditional food for a few First Nations in North America.
Ahtiana is a genus of lichenized fungi known as candlewax lichens in the family Parmeliaceae. A monotypic genus, it contains the single species Ahtiana sphaerosporella or the mountain candlewax lichen, found in western North America. This species was segregated from the genus Parmelia by the Canadian lichenologist Trevor Goward in a 1985 publication. It had been suggested that the genus include A. aurescens and A. pallidula based on similarities in morphology, but this transfer is not supported by molecular analysis.
Hypogymnia is a genus of foliose lichens in the family Parmeliaceae. They are commonly known as tube lichens, bone lichens, or pillow lichens. Most species lack rhizines that are otherwise common in members of the Parmeliaceae, and have swollen lobes that are usually hollow. Other common characteristics are relatively small spores and the presence of physodic acid and related lichen products. The lichens usually grow on the bark and wood of coniferous trees.
Gowardia is a genus of medium-sized, greyish hair lichens in the family Parmeliaceae. It is a circumpolar genus, mainly restricted to arctic-alpine habitats in northern Canada, Europe, and Russia.
The North American inland temperate rainforest is a 7 million hectare disjunct temperate rainforest spreading over parts of British Columbia in Canada as well as Washington, Idaho and Montana on the US side. Its patches are located on the windward slopes of the Rocky Mountains and the Columbia Mountains, extending roughly over 1000km from 54° North to 45° North. It is one of the largest inland temperate rainforests in the world.
Boreal woodland caribou(Rangifer tarandus caribou) are a species of caribou and subspecies of North American reindeer. Boreal woodland caribou are also known as southern mountain caribou, woodland caribou, and forest-dwelling caribou. Mountain caribou are uniquely adapted to live in old-growth forests. The mountain caribou diet consists of tree-dwelling lichens predominantly. They are unique in this aspect as in the far northern regions of their habitat zones, the snowpack is shallow enough that the boreal woodland caribou can paw through the snow to eat the ground-dwelling lichens. In the inland Pacific Northwest Rainforests of eastern British Columbia, where the snowpack can reach upwards of five meters, the mountain caribou rely predominantly on the tree-dwelling lichens such as Bryoria spp. and Alectoria spp., hanging above the snowpack. As a result, these mountain caribou are reliant upon the old growth forests, which have been logged for centuries and continue to dwindle.
Teuvo ("Ted") Tapio Ahti is a Finnish botanist and lichenologist. He has had a long career at the University of Helsinki that started in 1963, and then following his retirement in 1997, at the Botanical Museum of the Finnish Museum of Natural History. Known as a specialist of the lichen family Cladoniaceae, Ahti has published more than 280 scientific publications. A Festschrift was dedicated to him in 1994, and in 2000 he was awarded the prestigious Acharius Medal for lifetime contributions to lichenology.
John Walter Thomson Jr. (1913–2009) was a Scottish-born American botanist and lichenologist, sometimes referred to as the "Dean of North American Lichens".
Bruce Pettit McCune is an American lichenologist, botanist, plant ecologist, and software developer for analysis of ecological data.
Orvo Vitikainen is a Finnish lichenologist. He entered the University of Helsinki in 1961, from where he obtained a Candidate of Philosophy degree in 1966, and a Licentiate of Philosophy in 1971. He later earned a Ph.D. from this institution in 1994, under the supervision of Teuvo Ahti. Between the years 1961 and 1981 he was a junior curator of cryptogams at the University of Helsinki Botanical Garden, and then from 1983 to 2004 he was the head of the lichen herbarium. Here he managed the internationally valuable collections of the early lichenologists Erik Acharius and William Nylander. He has collected thousands of specimens for the herbarium from various locations in Finland, but also internationally, including Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Russian Karelia, Scotland, Austria, Italy, Hungary, Croatia, Montenegro, Tanzania, Kenya, British Columbia, and Brazil. In 1992–1994, he was a scientist of the Finnish Academy in the Ahti research group.
Emmanuël Sérusiaux is a Belgian lichenologist. His career, spanning more than four decades, has combined both lichenology research and political aspects of nature conservation. He spent several periods working as a researcher at the National Fund for Scientific Research and the University of Liège, the latter in which he accepted a faculty position as professor and head of the Plant Taxonomy and Conservation Biology unit. Sérusiaux also served for three non-consecutive appointments as Deputy Chief of Staff in the Government of Wallonia. He retired from both his academic and political positions in 2019.
Parmelia imbricaria is a species of foliose lichen in the family Parmeliaceae. Found in western Canada, it was formally described as a new species in 2017 by Trevor Goward, Pradeep Kumar Divakar, María del Carmen Molina, and Ana Crespo. The type specimen was collected by Goward near the Clearwater River drainage, where it was found at an altitude of 700 m (2,300 ft) growing on a basalt boulder. The specific epithet refers to the "imbricate" lobes of the thallus. The lichen occurs in western Canada, with a range including southern Yukon and extending south to southern inland British Columbia. The European Parmelia pinatifida is a closely related species.
Hypogymnia wilfiana is a species of foliose lichen in the family Parmeliaceae. It is found in western North America, where it grows on conifer trees.
Peltigera chionophila is a species of foliose lichen in the family Peltigeraceae. It was first formally described in 2000 by Canadian lichenologist Trevor Goward and Belgian lichenologist Bernard Goffinet.
Peltigera cinnamomea, commonly known as the cinnamon-pelt lichen, is a muscicolous (moss-dwelling), leafy lichen in the family Peltigeraceae. The Canadian lichenologist Trevor Goward formally described the species in 1995. The lichen is found in northwestern North America's forested regions, particularly in the unique montane and subalpine forest communities of the northern Rocky Mountains. Peltigera cinnamomea grows under prolonged snow cover, surviving well into spring. This trait distinguishes it from many other Peltigera species in similar North American forest ecosystems.
Peltigera castanea is a species of terricolous and muscicolous, foliose lichen in the family Peltigeraceae. Described as a new species in 2003, it is part of the taxonomically challenging species complex centred around Peltigera didactyla. Recognised based on phylogenetic studies that highlighted its unique genetic markers, P. castanea is distinguished by its dark, chestnut-coloured upper surface, which inspired its vernacular name, chestnut pelt lichen. Its known distribution includes North America, Asia, Europe (Estonia), Greenland, and the Antarctic. The conservation status of Peltigera castanea varies regionally, from being critically imperiled in British Columbia and Yukon to critically endangered in Estonia due to significant habitat degradation and restricted population size.
↑ Hertel, Hannes (2012). Gattungseponyme bei Flechten und Lichenicolen Pilzen[Generic eponyms in lichens and lichenicolous fungi]. Bibliotheca Lichenologica (in German). Vol.107. Stuttgart: J. Cramer. p.43. ISBN978-3-443-58086-5.
↑ Goffinet, Bernard; Miadlikowska, Jolanta; Goward, Trevor (2003). "Phylogenetic inferences based on nrDNA sequences support five morphospecies within the Peltigera didactyla complex (lichenized Ascomycota)". The Bryologist. 106 (3): 349–364. doi:10.1639/01.
1 2 3 4 5 Cannings, Robert A.; Goward, Trevor; Merilees, William J. (2020). "Tribute to R. Yorke Edwards, 1924–2011". The Canadian Field-Naturalist. 134 (3): 270–294. doi:10.22621/cfn.v134i3.2657.
↑ Halonen, Pekka; Myllys, Leena; Velmala, Saara; Hyvärinen, Heini (2009). "Gowardia (Parmeliaceae)—a new alectorioid lichen genus with two species". The Bryologist. 112 (1): 138–146. doi:10.1639/0007-2745-112.1.138.
↑ Alstrup, Vagn; Cole, Mariette S. (1998). "Lichenicolous fungi of British Columbia". The Bryologist. 101 (2): 221–229. doi:10.2307/3244200. JSTOR3244200.
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