A Thinking Person's Guide to America's National Parks

by Manning, Robert E.; Diamant, Rolf; Mitchell, Nora J.; Harmon, David

• ISBN13: 9780807600191
• ISBN10: 0807600199
• eBook ISBN(s): 9780807600238
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2016-04-04
• Publisher: George Braziller Inc.
• More Book Details

Summary

The book delves into issues affecting an array of parks: the iconic western national parks like Yellowstone; the urban parks such as Golden Gate National Recreation Area; historic sites including the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Gettysburg National Military Park; and cultural areas like Mesa Verde National Park that are among America’s over 400 national parks.              Twenty-three essays from contributing authors with deep personal and professional connections to the national parks serve as expert guides to places in the park system where:  much of the nation’s biological and cultural diversity is represented;ideas such as freedom, civil rights, and conservation were conceived;vast wilderness offers solitude and reflection;storied landscapes preserve a sense of place;the balance between recreation and preservation is tested;research and learning engage the next generation;the dynamics of nature are being shaped by a changing climate; and  innovations in technology, sustainability, and stewardship provide a sense of purpose and hope.