Defending the Wilderness - (New York State) by Paul Schaefer (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Defending the Wilderness brings together the best of Paul Schaefer's writings on the Adirondacks. It provides a fascinating account of the history of the conservation movement in New York State since the early 1930s as seen through the eyes of one who organized the grass-roots movement that stopped the damming of Adirondack rivers in the biggest, longest, and most costly conservation battle in the United States. They also tell the story of how the now-famous "forever wild" article of the New York State Constitution has enabled the state to lead the nation in conservation efforts for more than a century.

But these pieces do more than chronicle a half-century of conservation work; they also capture the essence of the country itself. In essay after essay, Schaefer describes the beauty of the Adirondacks, its wild rivers and
forests, its mountains and wildlife. Illustrated with 64 outstanding black-and-white photographs, Defending the Wilderness collects for the first time in a single volume the writings of one of our greatest conservationists.

From the Back Cover

Right now, as this volume is published, the remaining unspoiled wilderness of the Adirondacks, the true, roadless wildness areas, a million-plus acres, as officially designated, seems secure for all time.

Review Quotes

Called the 'Champion of the Park, ' Schaefer is universally credited as one of the individuals most responsible for the preservation and protection of the Adirondack Park.-- "Forest and Conservation History"

Here is history, but more than history, here is the personal testimony of a man's love for a wild land and his unflagging determination to preserve it.-- "Charles Callison, founder, Public Lands Institute"

Paul Schaefer has spent most of his life in the Adirondack region--exploring, studying, enjoying, writing, and fighting its battles. This anthology of Schaefer's writings over the years is the essence of his wilderness philosophy. It is a great testament. It inspires us to do our very best to keep the Adirondacks 'forever wild.'-- "Paul H. Oehser, former editor of scientific publications, National Geographic Society"

There is no individual more responsible for, or dedicated to, the protection of New York State's renowned Forest Preserve than Paul Schaefer, a giant of a man who writes from the heart and with unsurpassed knowledge.-- "George D. Davis, former executive director, Adirondack Land Trust"

About the Author

Paul Schaefer was a visionary leader of the New York State conservation movement since his early twenties. During his long career he served on countless advisory committees for state and private agencies. His numerous awards and honors include the 1966 Governor's Award from the New York State Conservation Council and National Wildlife Federation, the 1985 Governor Mario Cuomo Conservation Award, and the 1986 Chevron USA Conservation Award. In 1979, Union College recognized his outstanding contributions to conservation by awarding him an honorary doctor of science degree.