Bruce Kershner
Author
environmentalist
high school biology teacher
forest ecologist
About Bruce Kershner
Bruce Kershner: Buffalo’s Guardian of Old-Growth Forests
Born on April 17, 1950, in Buffalo, NY, Bruce Kershner was a man who turned his passion for nature into a lifelong mission to protect the planet’s most cherished landscapes. An environmentalist, author, and teacher, Bruce left an undeniable legacy on the preservation of old-growth forests in Western New York and beyond. His work continues to inspire conservationists and nature enthusiasts who share his deep love for the natural world.
Early Life and Inspiration
Bruce grew up immersed in the natural beauty of Buffalo’s surroundings, where towering trees, flowing rivers, and unique ecosystems sparked his curiosity. Though he later spent time in downstate New York, Buffalo’s proximity to rich wilderness areas remained an intrinsic influence on his career.
His academic pursuits reflected his love for the environment. Bruce earned a degree in biology and ecology from Binghamton University and a master’s in botany and ecology from the University of Connecticut. These studies equipped him with the knowledge he needed to become a leading environmental advocate.
Settling back in Western New York, he channeled his enthusiasm for teaching and exploration into a career as a high school biology teacher at John F. Kennedy High School in Sloan. There, he founded the Environmental Club to inspire young minds and introduce students to the importance of conservation.
A Champion of Old-Growth Forests
Bruce Kershner was renowned as an expert on old-growth forests, uncovering nearly 300 sites of ancient woodlands in North America. Many of these forests were previously thought to be destroyed. His discoveries included New York State’s oldest forest and the largest conglomeration of old-growth trees along the Niagara River corridor.
One of his greatest achievements was his work in the Zoar Valley, a magical area in Southern Erie County, where he documented and protected some of the tallest trees in the eastern United States. These ancient giants, hidden from loggers for centuries, became central to Bruce’s mission. His advocacy resulted in the preservation of these forests, which now stand as a testament to his dedication.
Bruce’s efforts went beyond the Zoar Valley. He played key roles in protecting forested areas in Allegany State Park, the Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve, and the Niagara Gorge, among others. He also collaborated on legislation for environmental conservation, notably contributing to the passing of the Bruce S. Kershner Old-Growth Forest Preservation and Protection Act in New York State in 2008. The law established the definition and legal protections for old-growth forests—a true milestone in environmental policy.
A Gifted Author
Bruce Kershner’s love for nature was not confined to the forests he tirelessly defended. He poured his passion into writing, publishing a dozen books that captivated readers with their vivid depictions of the natural world. His titles, such as The Sierra Club Guide to Ancient Forests of the Northeast and Secret Places of Western New York and Southern Ontario, became valuable resources for adventurers and conservationists alike.
While his books focused on uncovering hidden natural treasures, they also served as compelling calls to action, urging readers to preserve these places for future generations. His ability to communicate complex ecological topics in an accessible, heartfelt manner earned him widespread acclaim.
Awards and Legacy
Bruce Kershner’s tireless work was recognized with numerous awards, including Environmentalist of the Year (awarded by both the Sierra Club and the Adirondack Mountain Club) and the New York State Environmentalist of the Year honor. These accolades stood as a testament to his unwavering resolve to protect the environment.
Beyond his accolades, Bruce’s most enduring legacy lies in the natural landscapes he fought to preserve. His efforts secured state protections that will keep these magnificent forests standing for generations to come, and his work with the Buffalo Audubon Society and other conservation groups established lasting programs to promote ecological awareness.
A Buffalo Son, Forever Connected to Nature
Although Bruce passed away in 2007 after battling cancer, his spirit lives on in the forests he loved and the people he inspired. His connection to Buffalo and its surrounding wilderness shaped both his life and career, fostering a deep appreciation for the beauty and fragility of the environment.
Whether walking the trails at Zoar Valley, reading one of his insightful books, or standing in awe of an ancient tree, you can feel Bruce Kershner’s presence. He was more than an environmentalist—he was Buffalo’s champion of nature, a guardian of old-growth forests, and a storyteller who reminded us why the natural world is worth fighting for.
Here’s to Bruce Kershner—a Buffalo son whose legacy continues to inspire a greener, more sustainable future.