nature of the bedrock and the surrounding vegetation. The lakes are affected by fire in various ways. Much of this chapter discusses fish in relation to lake types. Building on research in the Quetico, four species are emphasized: northern pike, walleye, lake trout, and small mouth bass. These are major predators that impact the entire aquatic system and are also a major attraction for visitors. (Tables are included that indicate lake characteristics and lakes favorable for certain fish species.) This chapter also includes a clear factual discussion of acid rain and mercury deposition and the potential each has to alter the aquatic system. Characteristically, Heinselman approaches both problems with solid facts rather than scare tactics and so provides reasoned conclusions that support is needed for corrective action. Visitors may also produce change in the ecosystem. Heinselman begins with quotes from TWA of 1964 and the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness Act of 1995 to establish the purposes for which the BWW was established. He demonstrates growth in use for both the
BWW and the Quetico and documents changes in regulations relative to motors, length of stay, and size of party. A visitor distribution system is now operating in both the Quetico and the BWW and research on campsite selection and maintenance has helped to reduce site expansion, erosion, and other problems, including water quality. The problem of too many people remains. Managers of parks and similar public properties other than wilderness will likely find some useful techniques. In his last chapter, “Tomorrows Wilderness,” Heinselman speculates on the fate of the BWW and the entire northern forest in the event of global climate change. He outlines the impacts on vegetation, birds, mammals, streams, lakes, and fish. He is convinced that global warming has begun and that major effects will be felt soon unless drastic measures are taken worldwide. He suggests that planning start now to avoid the possible loss of major forest communities and to avoid ignition of catastrophic fires. To reduce these threats he advocates increased use of fire to reduce excessive fuel accumulation and
to regenerate the large areas of aging stands of jack pine and spruce, and fir, aspen, and birch forests. Despite changes that he believes are almost inevitable, Heinselman remains optimistic that if his suggestions are implemented many characteristics of the wilderness can be maintained and that its scientific, educational, and inspirational values may be preserved. In a short epilogue the author states his personal feelings and his path toward understanding the nature and meaning of wilderness. Perhaps one day the essence of that knowledge will be shared by every thinking person. This is a unique book that delivers a mix of sound science, solid practical advice, and inspiration. Its pages beckon to all whether they be fishing enthusiasts, hunters, historians, teachers, students, philosophers, politicians, woodworkers, or urbanites. This book should be a lifelong companion for everyone who feels the pull of wilderness and the challenge of the northern forest. IJW *Reviewed by Forest Stearns, professor emeritus, University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, USA.
Due to a problem in the production process after the completion of editing, several errors and omissions occurred in the Book Review section of the March 1997 issue of IJW Specifically: 1. The reviewer of Wilderness Therapy: Foundations, Theory, and Research was omitted. She is Rocklynn Culp, graduate student in the University of Idaho’s Department of Resource Recreation and Tourism. 2. In the review of Thelon—A River Sanctuary reviewed by James R. Fazio, most paragraph indentations were omitted, resulting in run-on type. 3. In the review of Northern Wilderness Areas: Ecology, Sustainability, Values reviewed by Bjorn Kaltenborn, the editor of the book’s name was misspelled. It is Anna-Liisa Sippola. We regret these errors and have taken steps to prevent their reoccurrence. —Alan Ewert, Acting Managing Editor
THE IN TERNA TI ONAL J OU RNAL OF WILDERNESS Volume 3, Number 3
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