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Old foot trails may be neglected, back-country ranger…

“Old foot trails may be neglected, back-country ranger stations left unmanned, and interpretive and protective services inadequately staffed, but the administrators know from long experience that millions for asphalt can always be found; Congress is always willing to appropriate money for more and…” quote by Edward Abbey
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““Old foot trails may be neglected, back-country ranger stations left unmanned, and interpretive and protective services inadequately staffed, but the administrators know from long experience that millions for asphalt can always be found; Congress is always willing to appropriate money for more and bigger paved roads, anywhere—particularly if they form loops. Loop drives are extremely popular with the petroleum industry—they bring the motorist right back to the same gas station from which he started.””

Edward Abbey

About This Quote

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

The quote critiques how authorities prioritize road building over preserving natural trails, driven by industry and political interests.

In simple terms: Officials favor paving roads over protecting trails.

Key Takeaway

Advocate for protecting natural spaces.

Themes

environment politics infrastructure conservation industry

Mood

critical reflective

Type

policy environmental commentary

When to use this quote

  • planning hikes
  • advocacy
  • policy debates
  • community education

Key Concepts

public policy environmental ethics resource allocation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance access with preservation?
  • What alternatives exist to endless road building?
A Different Perspective

The quote may overgeneralize and ignore necessary infrastructure.

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