Dwight F. Rettie
This first comprehensive look at America's national park system is an insider's tour covering the system and the National Park Service, the agency responsible for its care. Dwight F. Rettie, former chief of the NPS policy development office, is uniquely qualified to address the state--the problems and possibilities--of the system, which is made up of millions of acres of land in more than 350 areas around the nation and includes national parks, historic sites, battlefields, and recreation areas.
"Strongly recommended for all interested in the administration of the U.S. national park system." -- Choice
"The best book on the subject in thirty years" -- Professor of History Robin W. Winks at Yale University and former chairman, National Parks System Advisory Board
"A book filled with common sense. Based on both research and experience, it provides an excellent overview of how the National Park Service has responded to public and political pressures and how those responses have, at times, led to mistakes in management and in the creation of inappropriate new units. The author shows great affection for our national parks, and anyone who cares about their future should read this book." -- Professor of History Robin W. Winks, Yale University, and former chairman, National Park System Advisory Board
"No 'kiss and tell' in this book; no trashing of enemies and/or comrades, just straightforward and thoughtful observations regarding the National Parks System, what is needed, and what is probably required for the future." -- Russell E. Dickenson, former National Park Service director
"A solid and scholarly approach. . . . Highly recommended." -- Library Journal
"A clarion call to action, a message that our park system is a living legacy, entrusted to the care of the National Park Service. . . . Read this book, and then bring, if you haven't already, the national parks into your life." -- Stewart L. Udall, former U. S. Secretary of the Interior (1963-1971.)
For more information, e-mail Dwight Rettie at tarwathie@clis.com.
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