Dr. Pruitt was a member of the University of Manitoba Biological Sciences Department and founder of the Taiga Biological Station in Manitoba's eastside. Originally from Easton Maryland, Bill Pruitt started his ecology career at a young age and enhanced his learning with experiences from around the world. One primary focus was research north of 60 in Russia, Alaska, and Canada. Dr. Pruitt studied every part of the northern boreal ecosystems from the flora and fauna to the people and their languages. He wrote and published in the Russian language, contributing to many scientific journals. Many other books, academic papers, and advocacy pieces were written throughout his career.

Bill Pruitt will continue to be an inspiration to young scientists throughout the world. His students and friends continue his concern for the boreal forests of the northern hemisphere.

"I had the privilege to participate in project presentations by Bill's students, and to be able to ask his advice over the last 15 years. Earlier I had the challenge of editing an ecology primer Bill wrote. It was an impossible task because the writing was ecological, so we printed the entire primer as a series! We will all miss Bill," commented Gaile Whelan Enns, Manitoba Wildlands director.