About the Series

Many of us who spend time outdoors can readily — often enthusiastically — share what the existence of our wild and scenic areas mean to us. Exploring our wilderness areas adds a dimension of health and perspective to our lives we simply can’t find elsewhere. We can’t wait to post pictures and share our experiences. And who can blame us?

But what about the people who spent their lives advocating for the places we so enjoy?

As years pass, we risk losing the visions and insights of those who shared a deep reverence for nature and our connection to it — and especially those who helped protect our wild and scenic places. My hope is that Voices of the Wilderness will help us reconnect with the thoughts and wisdom of our past — and rediscover why the gifts they gave us are still relevant and urgent today.

Voices of the Wilderness is produced through the enthusiastic support of the National Conservation Training Center, home of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and many of the archival materials shown in this series. Special thanks to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Historian Dr. Mark Madison and his colleagues for their help in making this series possible through their generosity in sharing their time and wisdom.