Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1982

Abstract

Recent progress in protection of wildlife and wildlife refuges is currently being undermined by the efforts of James Watt, U.S. Secretary of the Interior, who believes that commercial interests should take precedence over the preservation of pristine wilderness areas and wildlife sanctuaries. The consequent loss, as populations approach extinction because of programs like decimation of habitats and predator control, is more than simply aesthetic: genetic material unique to each species will be lost forever. Particular issues of immediate concern are the fate of bobcats and whales, inhumane trapping, and the Endangered Species Act. As a longer-term concern, the goal of wildlife management should be the preservation of all species as members in viable, healthy ecosystems.

Comments

This paper was presented at a symposium on Wildlife Management in the United States held by the Institute for the Study of Animal Problems on October 14, 1981, St. Louis, MO. At the time this paper was written, Dr. Grandy was Executive Vice President of Defenders of Wildlife, Washington, DC.

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