Preserving Nature in the National Parks Review

In Preserving Nature in the National Parks, Sellars explains the history of the National Park Service from its inception to present times. Over time, the NPS' focus graduated from tourism to conservation. The struggle between the two objectives rages on, however. One argument is to preserve a park so as to appeal to tourists, thus allowing visitors to come and enjoy nature which was the original idea behind Yellowstone National Park. On the other had, it is argued that national parks should be kept in their natural state. It remains a question whether or not a happy medium can be attained here between the two arguments.

The ultimate issue is that enough scientific and ecological research was not incorporated while trying to keep the national parks tourist-friendly and so certain species were either over-killed or over-produced. The last thirty years has seen a transformation in that, however, and now what stands is a rift among the park service. The traditionalists want to adhere to the NPS' original objectives and attract tourists while the other side wishes to incorporate this newfound research.

While studying the issues Sellars provides, it is easy to understand the predicament the NPS finds itself in. With so few areas remaining that are untouched, it is reasonable to want to have land preserved in its natural state. Still, it is just as important to provide safe and enjoyable outdoor areas for individuals to visit. Seemingly, the jury is still out on this one.