Collection consists of rare and difficult to obtain limited distribution documents relating to specific case studies, most of which have been printed and distributed by governments and industrial agencies. They generally contain environmental data, and may have interpretive sections. Some documents contain copies of government permits and associated correspondence. The collection is arranged in five primary research subjects: Pulp and Paper Mills, Toxicolocy, Victoria Sewage, Coast and Island Mines, and Regional Collections. Each subject is divided into case studies. Within each case study, documents are arranged in alphabetical order by author.

The fonds consists of monographs, scientific articles, newspaper clippings, letters, slides, photographic prints, moving images, maps and other documents. The records are arranged in 3 series, reflecting Ellis's research and teaching interests: Environmental assessments, 1969-1997; Underwater Photography of salmon, 1957-1963; Arctic Research 1952-1967.