Ecologists as consultants: Biostitutes, or the front line as ecological protectors and educators?

Ecological consultants serve as the front line protectors of our environment because they delineate wetlands, identify rare biota, and develop plans for conserving biological diversity in the face of impending development.  However, because they are willing to engage with developers and receive payment for their services, consultants have been labeled as biological prostitutes or “biostitutes.”  I argue when done well, ecological consulting is a noble profession worthy of our best students.  Faculty should expose students to the experience that consultants offer, and incorporate consulting projects when teaching about real-world applications of ecology.