Study Guide
Grades 10-12, College, Adult
Directed by Arlen Slobodow
Produced by Public Interest Video Network
DVD Purchase $79, Rent $45
US Release Date: 1993
Copyright Date: 1992
DVD ISBN: 1-59458-929-1
VHS ISBN: 1-56029-472-8
Subjects
American Studies
Environment
Environmental Ethics
Forests and Rainforests
Government
History
Humanities
Law
Natural Resources
Social Psychology
Social Studies
Awards and Festivals
Best of Show, NAAEE
Best Environmental, Ecological Program & Merit Awards, Intl. Wildlife Film Festival
Bronze Plaque, Columbus Intl. Film & Video Festival
The history and policies of the U.S. Forest Service.
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"Excellent report... examines many sides of the issues. Highly recommended." Video Librarian |
OUR VANISHING FORESTS examines the history and policies of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS). In 1891 large tracts of U.S. forests were established as reserves in an effort to improve and protect our native forests. In 1906 these areas were designated National Forests and the USFS was empowered to manage them for the public trust.
Gifford Pinchot, the first head of the USFS, supported selective cutting as a means to conserve timber in balance with its use. Yet today less than 90% of our native National Forests remain. Since World War II, clearcutting has become the practice preferred by the USFS, and the rate of timber harvest from the National Forests has tripled. If we continue cutting at the current rate, we will wipe out all of our remaining forests within 20 years.
This film shows how the USFS, once the steward of wilderness, has abandoned its conservation ethic and now favors the interests of the timber industry.
Reviews
"Don't watch this film unless you're prepared to be made furious...The old adage about pictures being worth a thousand words was never more apt than when applied to this well-made film."
Workbook
"Excellent report... examines many sides of the issues. Highly recommended."
Video Librarian
"The evidence is damning... well researched. Recommended."
Library Journal