American Environment History - Essay Example

American Environment History Utilitarian Conservation (national park idea) Championed by renowned American forester Gifford Pinchot, utilitarian conservation movement vehemently embraced the philosophy “wise use” of natural resources to benefit humanity (Fitzsimmons 13). However, this move did not align well with numerous conservation entities’ ideals especially preservationists who despite for long were in agreement with utilitarian movement concerning varied issues that touched on effective management of natural resources (Fitzsimmons 13).

Hence, creating an irreparable long lasting rift that existed throughout 20Th century and even felt to date whereby some especially the preservationists led by Muir termed those supported “wise use” of natural resources for humanity’s benefits as “temple destroyers” (Fitzsimmons 13). This is evident specifically when the two sides disagreed on damming Tuolumne River in Yosemite National Park to act as a reservoir with the intention of availing water supply to San Francisco city (Fitzsimmons 13).

Pinchot’s idea encompassed the then dam that was basis of argument after completion and effective management to flood Hetch Hetchy Valley and in turn avail necessary water to the city dwellers (Chapman). Hence, aligning with what he cited as “wise use” of resources not only during then but also in future whereby currently San Francisco continues to depend on this water supply. This was after Pinchot’s idea received massive congressional approval for complete construction in 1913 (Fitzsimmons 13).

Consequently, this brought about Western Civilization ideals of utilizing natural resources with the intention of benefiting from them though with consideration of their sustenance despite being anti Muir’s argument. This is because Muir on his part termed natural resources as sacred thus referring Hetch Hetchy Valley as “shrine” and those of contrary opinion were holding perfect contempt against nature (Fitzsimmons 13). Work CitedChapman, Ann, E. American Conservation in the Twentieth Century.

National Park Service. n.d. Web. 27Th October 2013. Fitzsimmons, Allan K. Reforming Federal Land Management: Cutting the Gordian Knot. Lanham: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, Inc., 2012. Print.