Perspectives on the Adirondacks - by Barbara McMartin

About the Book

Barbara McMartin narrates the history of Adirondack environmental policy in depth, beginning with the 1970 formation of the Adirondack Park Agency, set up to regulate private development and to oversee the planning of public terrain.

Book Synopsis

Barbara McMartin narrates the history of Adirondack environmental policy in depth, beginning with the 1970 formation of the Adirondack Park Agency, set up to regulate private development and to oversee the planning of public terrain. Although hailed as the most innovative land-use legislation of its time, it ignited a wildfire of controversy, creating a landscape of conflict. Park residents protested. Government stood firm. Over the decades, disparate groups have sought to shape an effective program to protect Adirondack wildland but cannot seem to work together. This is the first comprehensive account of that ongoing drama: a stirring story of the environmental movement, public action, and government failure and success.

Review Quotes

She provides a detailed, cautionary tale of what happens when a government agency with a mandate to regulate development, acquire new lands, and encourage planning neglects to involve local residents in fulfilling its mission. . . . Recommended.-- "Choice"

The mixed-use establishment of the Adirondack State Park has led to numerous political battles over the regulation of development and other land use issues. The author traces the history of these battles from the 1970s to the present. She explores the evolution of the regulatory regimes of the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Adirondack Park Agency through the reactions of organizations and individuals on differing sides of the political battles over the Park.-- "Booknews"

About the Author

Barbara McMartin was active in numerous environmental groups and citizens' advisory committees, including the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's Forest Preserve Advisory Committee. She is author or coauthor of more than twenty books and guidebooks on the Adirondacks, including The Adirondack Park: A Wildlands Quilt, also published by Syracuse University Press.