American Covenant: National Parks, Their Promise, and Our Nation's Future

In American Covenant, Michael A. Soukup and Gary E. Machlis argue that national parks are essential to maintaining America's heritage and future, and call for revitalizing the National Park Service to be governed by expertise and science.

Format: Hardback
Length: 216 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2021
Publisher: Yale University Press

American Covenant: An Intimate and Candid Account of Our National Parks

"American Covenant" is a captivating and insightful book that delves into the world of America's national parks, offering a comprehensive account of their strengths, vulnerabilities, and profound significance in American life. Authored by Michael A. Soukup and Gary E. Machlis, both renowned conservationists with extensive experience, this book serves as a blend of memoir, critique, and a passionate celebration of the value of national parks.

In their book, Soukup and Machlis argue that national parks are vital in preserving the essence of our national heritage and play a crucial role in shaping America's future in a rapidly changing climate and political landscape. Through their real-world examples of both victories and challenges in protecting these precious spaces, the authors remind us that national parks are a promise—a covenant—that spans across generations of Americans.

The book also serves as a call to revitalize, reconstitute, reconfigure, and reform the National Park Service (NPS). The authors argue that the NPS is currently governed too much by outdated management practices and political considerations rather than a foundation of expertise and science. They propose a range of reforms to ensure that the NPS is better equipped to fulfill its mission of protecting and preserving America's natural and cultural treasures for future generations.

One of the key themes of "American Covenant" is the importance of collaboration and partnerships in conservation efforts. The authors highlight the role of local communities, businesses, and other stakeholders in supporting and sustaining national parks. They emphasize the need for meaningful engagement and dialogue to address the complex challenges facing these parks, including climate change, urbanization, and resource management.

Another important aspect of the book is its focus on the ecological and environmental significance of national parks. The authors provide detailed insights into the diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and habitats found within these parks, and the critical role they play in maintaining the balance of nature and promoting sustainable development. They also discuss the challenges posed by climate change, such as rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and the impacts on wildlife and ecosystems.

"American Covenant" is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that offers valuable insights into the world of national parks. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage and the critical role that national parks play in shaping our collective future. The authors' candid and insightful account of their careers in conservation provides a wealth of knowledge and experience that will be valuable to anyone interested in protecting and preserving these precious spaces.

In conclusion, "American Covenant" is an essential reading for anyone concerned about the future of America's national parks. It is a captivating and insightful book that blends memoir, critique, and a passionate celebration of the value of these precious spaces. Through their real-world examples and calls for reform, Soukup and Machlis inspire us to work together to revitalize, reconstitute, reconfigure, and reform the National Park Service to ensure that these iconic places are preserved and protected for generations to come.

Weight: 398g
Dimension: 148 x 222 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300140354