A. Willis Robertson: Pioneer Conservationist

Abstract

During his lifetime, Robertson was accused of being overly zealous in his defense of wildlife and natural resources. Many people could not understand his deep love for nature and his willingness to risk his political career at times for its preservation. But Robertson was no ordinary man. He had within him a vision which few men ever attain. His fight to protect our wildlife, and the legislation he sponsored to guarantee its safety, demonstrated that he was a man ahead of his time. To many conservationists, Robertson has become an inspiration, a standard to live up to. Today, his name is rarely mentioned in political discussions. But in the field of conservation his name should not be overlooked. Senator Allan Bible of Nevada expressed the feelings of hunters and conservationists best when he remarked: ''For his visionary leadership and his fierce love of the unspoiled wilds, Virginia and the nation owe him a debt that could never be repaid." [12] [From concluding section]