Alfred Runte se zaměřuje na význam a správu chráněných krajinných oblastí, přičemž jeho práce oslovuje celostátní publikum. Jeho hluboký zájem o tuto problematiku, inspirovaný ranými zkušenostmi, se promítl do vlivných publikací, které formují mezinárodní přístupy k ochraně přírody. Runteho analýzy se věnují nejen historii a správě národních parků, ale i širšímu vztahu mezi lidmi a přírodou. Jeho výzkum zahrnuje i praktické zkušenosti z terénu a aktivní zapojení do mezinárodních ochranářských iniciativ, což z něj činí klíčovou postavu v debatě o budoucnosti chráněných krajinných oblastí.
Interpretative history of the national parks system proposing the establishment of national parks evolved out of a need to fulfill cultural rather than environmental needs, and examining the problems of maintaining the character and integrity of parks.
The narrative explores the invention and evolution of national parks in America, highlighting their significance and the ongoing challenges of preservation. Renowned historian Alfred Runte, an adviser for a Ken Burns documentary, provides insights through historical context and stunning visuals, including color paintings. The revised edition features a new epilogue that reflects on the future of these treasured lands, emphasizing the importance of national unity and collective responsibility in maintaining the parks for future generations.
The book explores the profound impact of railroads on both western and eastern historic sites and national parks, enriching the narrative with expanded content from its predecessor. It serves as a visual treat, inviting readers to experience the nostalgia of train travel while discovering the connections between railroads and the preservation of natural beauty and history.
This history of Yosemite follows it as the seat of controversy affecting the evolution of national parks, from its path-breaking establishment in 1864 as a grant to California, 1890 expansion into a national park, boundary reductions and loss of the Hetch Hetchy Valley, evolution of wildlife science, management practices threatening Yosemite Valley, and erosion of wilderness to the present day