Robert Sterling Yard

Robert Sterling Yard was an influential American writer, journalist, and wilderness activist, born in Haverstraw, New York. After graduating from Princeton University, he spent two decades in the editing and publishing industry before dedicating his efforts to environmental advocacy. In 1915, he joined forces with Stephen Mather to champion the establishment of an independent national park agency, which culminated in the creation of the National Park Service in 1916. As the head of the National Parks Educational Committee, Yard worked tirelessly to promote the national parks and educate the public about their significance, advocating for high aesthetic standards in park selection while opposing commercial exploitation of these natural treasures. Yard's commitment to wilderness preservation extended beyond national parks; he became a founding member and the first president of The Wilderness Society in 1935, where he played a pivotal role in the modern wilderness movement. His efforts helped to forge a strong relationship between the National Parks Association and the United States Forest Service, furthering the cause of wilderness protection. Through his writings and activism, Yard left a lasting legacy in the fight for environmental conservation, positioning him as a key figure in the history of America's natural heritage.