In memoriam: Alan Austin

Biology Professor Emeritus Alan P. Austin died on Sept. 29 of complications arising from Parkinson’s disease. For 40 years Alan used his expertise in marine biology, phycology and freshwater ecology to build a research and teaching program encompassing aquatic sciences, ecology, water quality, pollution biology and aquaculture. He strove to understand the interactions within natural ecosystems and how we could use that knowledge to reshape the environment. Alan believed in Aldo Leopold’s notion of an ecological conscience—a sense of our individual responsibility for the health of the land and its capacity for self-renewal. His research, focusing on local and regional issues in collaboration with government scientists, included macro-algal inventories; health assessments of Vancouver Island lakes, rivers and streams affected by mining, logging and urban development; as well as the effects of waste water effluent on pristine mountain streams. The past decade has vindicated Alan’s foresight regarding the magnitude of global threats to humanity. Following more than 20 years of basic ecological teaching and research, Alan shifted his focus to integrating the insights derived from understanding nature with a new ethos of human development in step with nature. He embraced Victor Hugo’s observation that “Nothing else in the world … not all the armies … is so powerful as an idea whose time has come.” He is survived by Nana, his wife of 50 years, son Jason and his wife Deanna, grandchildren Danielle, Joseph and Caitlyn. Alan’s wisdom, pursuit of truth and advocacy for wildlife will be missed by his colleagues, students and friends.

Submitted by Wm. Patrick Lucey, friend and former colleague.