This was an enjoyable and interesting read mostly because it seemed to me the author had passion for his subject.
It is a history of the Yellowstone Park, National Park Service, the American Environmental Movement and the Natural History of the Western United States. It looks at the people behind the policies and decisions. A rare critical analysis of those policies that were endorssed by the National Park Service and the Department of the Interior and such organizations as the Sierra Club, WWF and the Audubon Society. If any thing, there was too much of the people and politics.
It covers the stories of numerous animals of Yellowstone. Such as the Beaver, Wolf, Elk, Mountain Lion, and Bison. Surprisingly little research was ever done by the time the author wrote the book. Some of the stories and anecdotes are what made this book the more interesting. Also, the look at the history of geological work in the park. The story of the dog diving into hot water and his poor owner high light the power of the place.
The author is somewhat critical of the way the Park was run and the development of the environmental movement. He is a true naturalist looking for evidence rather than trying to make it fit policy. He explores the founding philosphies behind each movement and how they evolved. The consequences were dire for Yellowstone. Most of it revolves around "Natural Regulation" and the problems this caused for Biologists studying Grizlies and the invasion of foreign species. And the Elk! Should they be in the Park at all?
A great read with many lessons for today when mixing science and politics, or balacing wild places with people.
I was lead to this book by the bibliography in the back of
State of Fear
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Customer reviews
4.4 out of 5
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39 global ratings
Top reviews from other countries
Terry
A must read for anyone who wants to understand the failure of modern "environmentalism".
Reviewed in the United States on 19 July 2019Murray D
How not to manage a National Park
Reviewed in the United States on 2 March 2015
Steve K
Great product and great seller.
Reviewed in the United States on 15 May 2021Buckeye6
Not Satisfied/ Book Not Rated Correctly
Reviewed in the United States on 3 December 2021
