The Fight for Freshwater: a memoir - Mike Joy

A leading freshwater ecologist, Mike Joy is a powerful advocate for the conservation of our waterways. In this memoir, he offers a rare first-hand look at the life of a scientist whose research led him to activism. Vividly describing the environmental damage he has witnessed in New Zealand’s rivers, lakes and streams, he writes also about the political challenges he has met along the way. At a perilous time for our universities, his story is an inspirational account of staying true to academia’s function as ‘critic and conscience’ of society.

This is also the story of personal discovery, determination and resilience. Mike was by turns a truck driver, mechanic, milkman, agent with the New Zealand Security Intelligence Service, and farm hand – in the industry he would later critique in his academic activism.

The Fight for Freshwater is an engaging account of a remarkable life – and vital reading for all concerned for the future of our environment.

‘Mike Joy says things that many people agree with. Others do not. He is controversial. This has, at times, caused him considerable difficulty. But he has consistently argued his case and provided evidence for his conclusions. I wish more academics who have important things to say would follow his lead.’
Steve Maharey, Vice-Chancellor of Massey University (2008–17)

Bridget Williams Books, July 2024.

ISBN: 9781991033840

Condition: new paperback. The price of this copy is discounted because there is a very small nick in the top of the spine cover (rear).