Chapter 9: Progressivism Takes Hold "Controversial Conservation"

Introduction In this chapter, you learned that President Theodore Roosevelt's efforts to protect and preserve America's natural environments were sometimes criticized by industrialists and environmentalists. In spite of opposition, Roosevelt set aside 150 million acres as national forests, established 5 national parks, and designated 4 national monuments. Many Presidents have continued Roosevelt's conservation efforts by adding to federal lands and establishing national parks and monuments. In fact, President Clinton designated 3 new national monuments in January 2000. Like Roosevelt, he received criticism for his actions. Visit this site to see why attempts at conservation can be controversial. Destination Title: CNN: "Clinton declares new national monuments" Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window. Need help using your browser for this activity? Click here for tips. Directions Start at the CNN: "Clinton declares new national monuments" Web site. Browse through the site, taking notes as you go. Be sure to listen to Interior Secretary Bruce Babbitt's statement. After you have read through the information, answer the following questions. 1. What legislation allowed President Clinton to establish the national monuments? 2. Why did legislators object to the new national monuments? 3. Describe the reactions of the residents who live near the new national monuments. 4. How did Clinton's aides defend the designations? 5. Write a brief comparison of the factors involved in designating the Grand Canyon National Monument in 1908 and the Grand Canyon-Parashant National Monument nearly 100 years later. How do the two actions compare in terms of land ownership, local impact, and opposition? Do you think it was easier for Roosevelt or for Clinton to declare the lands national monuments?