cover image Battling for the National Parks

Battling for the National Parks

George B. Hartzog. Moyer Bell, $12.95 (284pp) ISBN 978-0-918825-70-4

Between 1963 and 1972, Congress passed legislation that expanded the national park system41 million acres in Alsaska, National Wilderness Preservation, Historic Preservation, National Trails, the Wild and Scenic Rivers System. That period coincided with Hartzog's tenure as director of the National Parks Service. In this engaging memoir, he takes us behind the scenes in Washington to observe how park policy is made. Only a consummate politician could succeed in such a demanding job, and Hartzog demonstrates that he was equal to the task. In addition, he shows himself to be a tough administrator, a public-relations expert and a master of compromise. He recounts inspection trips with dignitaries (Ladybird Johnson for one), such unpopular decisions as camping restrictions at Yosemite and removing elk from Yellowstone. Hartzog is proudest of his urban park program, which provides activities for inner-city children. He discusses the all-important problem of funds, goals of the Park Service and the inevitable bureaucratic infighting. This book will be a revelation to critics of the service; and it makes a fine guide for both pols and conservationists. (June)