Dennis Hollum Robinson was one of Americas most important natural resource experts and leaders of the 20th century. He helped to shape and influence the course of our nations forestry, fisheries, wildlife, and land management policies while leading major government programs.
Robinson was born in 1904 in Vermont in a logging family. He was a gifted student who excelled in academics. He earned his bachelors degree in biology and forestry from the University of Maine in 1927 and his masters degree in forestry from the University of Michigan in 1932. Robinson went on to serve as a naval officer during World War II, leading him to become familiar with the government dimensions of managing resources.
Robinsons career officially began in 1933 when he joined the U.S. Forest Service as a supervisor and forester in Michigan. From there, he moved up the ranks, taking positions with the U.S. Fisheries Commission in 1940, first as an assistant chief biologist in the Great Lakes Division and then as an executive assistant in the Office of the Commissioner. In 1945, Robinson moved to Washington D.C., where he served as chief of the Forest Services national wildlife research division.
Robinsons largest accomplishment during his tenure with the Forest Service was his service on the National Forest System Advisory Board from 1949-1955. The board was responsible for recommending policies and regulations concerning the protection and management of the National Forest System. With Robinsons guidance and expertise, the board was able to enact several important conservation policies, including the National Forest Management Act of 1976 - still referred to as the Robinson Rule.
Throughout his career, he was awarded numerous honors and awards, including the George R. Darling Memorial Award (1936), the American Society of Foresters Meritorious Service award (1960), the DOI Special Service Award (1962), the Distinguished Service Award (1963), and the Conservation Service Award (1965).
Robinson was also a strong advocate of women in natural resource management. During his tenure as chief of the wildlife research division of the Forest Service, he encouraged the hiring of female scientists, despite the professional attitudes of the time.
Robinsons work and impact in his field were so great that, following his retirement as chief of the wildlife research division in 1965, he was asked by President Lyndon Johnson to serve on the National Technical Advisory Committee, a board created to advise government agencies on natural resource policies. Robinson retired again in 1977 after 37 years of government service.
Robinsons legacy of environmental stewardship and resource management continues to inspire future generations of natural resource professionals. He was the embodiment of the public servant, committed to protecting and preserving the nations forests, fisheries and wildlife for future generations to enjoy.
