Wilderness and the Changing American West

"an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeledby man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain." --1964 Wilderness Act In this thoughtful assessment of wilderness management policy andpractice, geographer Gundars Rudzitis explores the ongoingconflicts over the protection/exploitation of our westernwilderness areas. He separates the romantic myth of the Wild Westfrom past and present realities, and considers the influence of thetraditional self-image of the Westerner on wilderness managementpolicy. Rudzitis also explores the role of Native Americans andwhat their traditions can teach us about wildernessmanagement. While clearly on the side of preservation--he rails against thepractice of placing wilderness areas in the care of governmentagencies that also promote the interests of the corporate resourceindustries--Professor Rudzitis approaches the subject with ascientist's devotion to the facts. He assesses crucial issuesevenhandedly and offers honest appraisals of new and emerging landmanagement trends, including ecosystem management and theprivatization of public lands. He calls for the dramatic andcontroversial changes necessary to protect our wildernessheritage. Wilderness and the Changing American West is essential reading forpublic policymakers; land management, wildlife, park andrecreation, and economic development officials; environmentalists;and everyone interested in the preservation and/or use of thisprecious national treasure.

Preface viii Chapter One Wilderness and the American West 1 Chapter Two History and Management of Wilderness 20 Chapter Three Ecosystem Management and Beyond 35 Chapter Four What About Native Americans and Their Lands 52 Chapter Five Why Not See Off America’s Wildlands? 72 Chapter Six How Does the American Public Want Wilderness Managed? 91 Chapter Seven Wilderness and the Communities of the American West 104 Chapter Eight Wilderness and Economies of the Old and New West 123 Chapter Nine “It’s My West, Not Yours” 143 Chapter Ten Future Directions for Wilderness 173 Notes 195 Index 215