Customer Reviews

Forest Dreams, Forest Nightmares: The Paradox of Old Growth in the Inland West (Weyerhaeuser Environmental Books)

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Langston has done a thorough job of historical research. However, what makes an environmental critique good is the solution offered. The book is very weak in this area. The author does mention society needing a better relationship with the land, but this cannot be applied to silviculture without details attatched. She may be a good historian, but she is not innovative. Langston offers no real clue as to how the Forest Service should continue in the future according to her ideals. A critique is not valid with out offering a better way, and she fails in that department.

I think it's wonderful that Ms. Langston has begun to evaluate some of the causes of deforestation in the western U.S. The forest service has certainly been careless and haphazard in its management of our forests. Insect infestation and diseases have undoubtedly ravaged our forests. Conspicuously undercovered in Ms. Langston's book, though, is the damage caused by unselective logging. Any honest (and I'm not trying to suggest that Ms. Langston is deliberately dishonest) tree biologist will tell you that logging, more than any other manmade activity, has had the severest impact on our wilderness.

Even though I work in the field of cultural & historic resources management, I have recommended this study of the Blue Mountains to my colleagues in the natural resources department at Montpelier, the home of James & Dolley Madison, as they struggle with several fundimental issues (clear cutting, natural re-seeding, etc.). My sister's work is clear, concise (so that a lay person can understand the principles set forth in her work), and an enjoyable read. I highly recommend this to anyone who has an interest in saving America's natural resources! Lee Langston-Harrison Director of Curatorial Operations Montpelier Montpelier Station, Virginia