June 25, 2015, Updated June 27, 2015

Dr. Ron Brooks Receives The Friends of Algonquin Park 2015 Directors Award

On June 27, 2015 Dr. Ron Brooks, long-time Algonquin Park turtle researcher, received The Friends of Algonquin Park Directors Award to honour his significant contributions toward the appreciation of Algonquin Park from Kim Smith (right), the Chair of The Friends of Algonquin Park.

Dr. Ron Brooks, long-time Algonquin Park turtle researcher received The Friends of Algonquin Park Directors Award on June 27, 2015.

Dr. Ron Brooks is Professor Emeritus in the Department of Integrative Biology, University of Guelph. The major focus of his research has been the life history of turtles, particularly the relationships among age at first reproduction, reproductive output, body size and growth rates and longevity.

The Algonquin Park Painted Turtle and Snapping Turtle project, led by Ron Brooks, began in 1972. This study, largely centred at Wolf Howl Pond on the Mizzy Lake Trail, is one of the longest-running research projects on vertebrates in the world. Dr. Brooks has mentored over 100 students as they began their careers as scientists and biologists participating in this project. In recognition of the very significant contribution by Ron Brooks to the ongoing study of turtle biology, an interpretive panel was installed at Wolf Howl Pond in 2014. His research has greatly enhanced our understanding and conservation of these threatened species in Algonquin Park and throughout Ontario.

Ron Brooks was the senior co-author (with Dan Strickland and Russ Rutter) of a major revision of The Friends of Algonquin Park's publication, Reptiles and Amphibians of Algonquin Provincial Park.

The Friends of Algonquin Park Directors Award has been presented to researchers that undertook long-term research projects in Algonquin Park. These recipients include Nick Martin (Lake Trout) in 1987; and Roy Anderson (parasitology, incl. brainworm), Bruce Falls (White-throated Sparrow and small mammals), Jim Fraser (Brook Trout) and Al Gordon (forestry) in 1992. It is very appropriate that Ron Brooks be recognized among the scientists who have done so much to increase our knowledge and appreciation of the flora and fauna of Algonquin Park.

About The Friends of Algonquin Park

The Friends of Algonquin Park is a Canadian registered charity and non-profit, non-governmental organization established in 1983 for people passionate about Algonquin Park. It operates retail locations, recruits members, and fundraises to support the natural and cultural educational goals of Algonquin Park.

Related Information

• Painted Turtle Research in Algonquin Park
• Ontario Turtles at Risk Video
• The Friends of Algonquin Park
• Directors Award