Jack Ward Thomas exemplified the core values of the Boone and Crockett Club and served as an excellent example for conservation leaders, employees and students. His accomplishments and foundational contributions in the areas of conservation, applied research and ecosystem management continue to guide leaders today.
A native of Texas, Thomas began his career with 10 years as a biologist for the then Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. He joined the U.S. Forest Service in 1966. Rising through the ranks, he was appointed as Chief of the Forest Service by President Bill Clinton in 1993. He served this position well, where he led the development of the Northwest Forest Plan. He was also instrumental in establishing Oregon's Starkey Project in 1987, which continues today as an example of how applied science for multiple-use habitats can and should be conducted.
Thomas retired from the Forest Service in 1996. He then served at the University of Montana as professor of wildlife conservation, a chair endowed by the Boone and Crockett Club. For nearly 10 years, Thomas served as a mentor to many students with his personal perspective from being in the field. As one of his students commented, "Every student I know to have interacted with Jack wanted to impress him; we all wanted to show that, like him, we were capable, thoughtful, and - above all - honorable." Thomas officially retired in 2006, but continued to write, speak, and consult for professionals, governments, and public lands supporters across the country and the world.
