Conservation Reader

An educational publication written in the early 20th century. This work focuses on the importance of natural resource conservation, aiming to instill environmental knowledge and responsibility, particularly among younger audiences. Through its various chapters, the book stresses the historical relationship between humanity and nature, underlining how the degradation of the environment has often been a result of neglect and poor stewardship. The opening of the text introduces the imperative need for conservation education, particularly for children. Fairbanks argues that understanding the value of natural resources is essential for nurturing future generations capable of maintaining and improving conservation efforts. The initial chapters delve into the evolution of human interaction with nature, starting with our ancestors who lived in harmony with their environment, gradually progressing to the current challenges posed by factors such as over-exploitation and lack of environmental stewardship. The author sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of various conservation topics, including soil preservation, water management, and the restoration of natural habitats, highlighting the need for a collective societal effort to protect our planet's resources.