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It is imperative to maintain portions of the wilderness…

“It is imperative to maintain portions of the wilderness untouched so that a tree will rot where it falls, a waterfall will pour its curve without generating electricity, a trumpeter swan may float on uncontaminated water - and moderns may at least see what their ancestors knew in their nerves and…” quote by Bernard DeVoto
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“It is imperative to maintain portions of the wilderness untouched so that a tree will rot where it falls, a waterfall will pour its curve without generating electricity, a trumpeter swan may float on uncontaminated water - and moderns may at least see what their ancestors knew in their nerves and blood.”

Bernard DeVoto

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Preserving untouched wilderness lets natural processes and wildlife thrive, offering future generations a direct link to ancestral ecosystems.

In simple terms: Protect wild places for nature and heritage.

Key Takeaway

Leave some lands untouched.

Themes

conservation heritage nature legacy

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

ethical environmental

When to use this quote

  • environmental education
  • eco‑tourism
  • land‑use planning
  • wildlife research

Key Concepts

ecosystem integrity wildlife habitats cultural continuity

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance development with wilderness protection?
  • What value do untouched ecosystems hold for society?
A Different Perspective

Human needs for development may conflict with preservation goals.

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