He lives in an off-grid home in southern New Mexico.
As well as books he has written, broadcasts and media interviews, he authors a blog called Nature Bats Last that focuses on global climate change, energy decline and the possibility of imminent human extinction due to greenhouse gases.
He has been described in the New York Times as an "apocalyptic ecologist who has built something of an 'End of Days' following".
But while he believes time is running out for humans, Dr McPherson does not rush his public meetings, instead inviting audiences to discuss and help plan for the future.
His presentations are followed with two or more hours of audience discussion.
He will hold two free public addresses in Northland next week:
• Friday, November 25, 6pm at the Kauri Room, Far North REAP, Kaitaia.
• Saturday, November 26, 1.30pm at In Step Dance Studio, Reyburn Lane, Whangarei.