high fives

WILDERNESS by Susan Alexander

I spent considerable time searching for wilderness specific Websites and didn't find too much. The first two sites listed offer comprehensive information for those doing research. The following two are issue specific and finally, for good measure, I included a site from the "wiseguys," which is not wilderness specific but includes it in its various diatribes against land conservation and environmental protection.

1. Wilderness Links .
A comprehensive one-stop-shop for wilderness Websites. Extensive listings on education, advocacy, recreation, management, policy, the "idea of wilderness," and lists of specific areas in the U.S. and abroad.

2. Wilderness Information Network .
Now mostly complete, the site fulfills its promise as a useful source of academic research and other information on wilderness, including publication of learned papers and an order form to receive free research papers. The newsletter is yet to come. Also provides means for "wilderness management distance education" via the Web or snail mail.

3. The Wilderness Society .
A comprehensive and easy to navigate source of the latest information on wilderness issues, including a legislative hearing schedule. Includes legislative updates, opportunities to take action, and a "Kids Corner." It provides extensive links to organizations, businesses, publications, etc.

4. Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance .
Pretty to look at and full of information on wilderness and other issues, e.g. mining, grazing, water rights. I finally got the click maps to work, and the photo exhibit of areas around the state is impressive. Easy to act with links to Project Vote Smart for Congressional voting records, e-mail addresses, etc.

5. People for the West! seemed to have the most anti-wilderness information of the abuse groups, though the site covers many more land related issues. Its "Hotlines" highlights the latest "threats" and encourages action on them. Position papers and news articles abound.

Susan Alexander works at the Public Media Center in San Francisco and is a chronic outdoorswoman.