The Eastern Wilderness Act Turns 50! 
by Katie Bilodeau, Legislative Director and Policy Analyst at Wilderness Watch

The Eastern Wilderness Areas Act celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Like handfuls of statutes that designated multiple Wilderness areas, this statute—which technically declares no statutory title despite being commonly known as the “Eastern Wilderness Act”—designated 15 Wildernesses and 17 Wilderness Study Areas in the eastern states to be managed as Wilderness until the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) evaluated them for Congress. The statute is remarkable, however, for the story leading up to its January 1975 passage. It emerged as law despite USFS attempts to severely limit Wilderness on our national forests and effectively end wilderness designation in the East.
The USFS attempted to limit the reach of the new National Wilderness Preservation System on national forests as soon as Congress passed the Wilderness Act. Congress had instructed the USFS in the 1964 Wilderness Act to spend that first decade reviewing and recommending acreage within national forests that Congress could preserve and designate as Wilderness. But the USFS, already entrenched in its get-out-the-cut culture of post-WWII America, had pushed back against the idea of a Wilderness System during congressional deliberation. The Wilderness Act imposed new obligations where the agency previously enjoyed discretion. In 1965, the USFS self-limited what it would recommend as Wilderness. The agency plucked the most restrictive criteria from language in the Wilderness Act, requiring any USFS wilderness recommendations to be areas “untrammeled by man,” to “retain[]its primeval character and influence,” and to be no less than 5,000 acres. Areas previously impacted in just about any way could not clear these hurdles. While that reduced potential wilderness acreage in the West, the USFS admitted these criteria excluded much of the East entirely.
Wilderness advocacy groups responded. They argued that the USFS misinterpreted the Wilderness Act, which was written forward-looking and phrased more broadly. An eligible area “generally appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature” and “has five thousand acres of land or is of a sufficient size as to make practicable its preservation…”. The Wilderness Act did not exclude “national forest lands predominantly of wilderness value” that may have been trammeled in the past. In effect, Congress had intended for more than what met the USFS’s “purity” test.
The debate on the USFS’s purity test landed before Congress as competing bills in the early 1970s. On one side—the legislation drafted and promoted by the USFS—was the Wild Areas Act of 1972. It invented alternative designation criteria because the bill explicitly concluded that almost no eastern areas could satisfy the 1964 Wilderness Act’s definition of “Wilderness.” Conservationists criticized this bill as codifying agency misinterpretation. They countered with a competing bill. 
The competing bill that proponents referred to as the Eastern Wilderness Areas Act would protect numerous areas in the East under the 1964 Wilderness Act. Proposed areas in this omnibus wilderness bill were delineated by local citizen groups with grassroots support. Proponents of the Eastern Wilderness Areas bill argued that the USFS’s new criteria in the Wild Areas bill was unnecessary for eastern wildlands because the Wilderness Act applied everywhere. The 1964 Wilderness Act had two standards. The first was practical and permissive, allowing areas with prior human impact to be considered for and designated as Wilderness. After Congress designated Wilderness, however, a stricter standard applied—moving forward, agencies must manage Wilderness to maintain an untrammeled (i.e., unmanipulated, uncontrolled) quality.
Idaho Senator Frank Church reinforced this view in a 1973 speech—“The Wilderness Act Applies to the East”—just days after he introduced the bill. Senator Church noted he was “deeply involved in [the Wilderness Act’s] construction and in the full debate it received before passing the Senate by an overwhelming margin,” and expressed concern that “this important law is being misinterpreted by some officials in the very agencies which have the duty and responsibility to apply it.” 
Senator Church noted that while the USFS would have everyone “believe that no lands ever subject to past human impact can qualify as wilderness…Nothing could be more contrary to the meaning and intent of the Wilderness Act.” He called out the agency for anti-wilderness maneuvering and trying to divide the Wilderness System into two, refashioning the current nationwide Wilderness System into a western one. Church repeated his previous statements that the Wilderness Act allows for the designation of formerly disturbed areas: “This is one of the great promises of the Wilderness Act. We can dedicate formerly abused areas where the primeval scene can be restored by natural forces. In this way, we can have a truly national wilderness system.” 
In rebutting the assertions that no areas in the East can meet the definition of Wilderness, Church highlighted the three eastern Wilderness areas with past land abuse (Great Gulf, NH; Shining Rock, NC; and Linville Gorge, NC) that Congress designated with the original 1964 Wilderness Act. This move, he noted, “was, and is, a standing and intentional precedent to encourage such areas to be found and designated under the act in other eastern locations.”
Ultimately, Congress chose the conservationists’ bill over the Wild Areas Act, rejecting the USFS’s unreasonable purity criteria and reinforcing the 1964 Wilderness Act’s practical guidance for designating Wilderness. Areas with past impact can become Wilderness. Once designated, however, the Wilderness Act protects from further manipulation. Untrammeled means, moving forward, nature decides. The unequivocal reinforcement of these values to prevent warping the 1964 Wilderness Act is what we—in the East and the West—owe to the “Eastern Wilderness Act.”

Spring is a magical time in the forest. After the quiet dormancy of winter, the landscape bursts to life with delicate wildflowers known as spring ephemerals. These short-lived blooms — including trillium, bloodroot, Dutchman’s breeches, and mayapple — are nature’s early risers, taking advantage of the brief window of sunlight before the trees fully leaf out. Their beauty is fleeting, and their ecological role is essential. That’s why practicing Leave No Trace Principle 2: Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces is especially critical during this sensitive season.
Spring ephemerals are perennial plants that emerge, bloom, and go to seed all within a short period in early spring. They thrive in the rich soil of deciduous forests, taking advantage of the sunlight that filters through the bare tree canopy before the leaves come in. Trillium is one of the most recognizable spring ephemerals, with its three-petaled flowers and broad leaves. Bloodroot, named for its reddish sap, was historically used as a natural dye by Indigenous peoples. Dutchman’s breeches, with their tiny white flowers that resemble upside-down pantaloons, add whimsical charm to the forest floor. Mayapple is another common ephemeral, known for its umbrella-like leaves and hidden white flower that gives way to a small fruit. These plants play an essential role in the forest ecosystem, providing an early nectar source for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Their root systems also stabilize soil and help prevent erosion.
During spring, trails can become muddy and tempting to avoid. But stepping off the trail — even for just a moment — can cause significant damage to fragile plant communities, including spring ephemerals. Spring ephemerals have shallow root systems and limited energy reserves. If they are crushed underfoot, they may not have the strength to recover before the growing season ends. Even a single misstep can mean the loss of a plant that took years to establish. Ephemerals provide some of the first food sources for emerging pollinators in spring. Damaging these plants can reduce nectar availability, which in turn affects bee and butterfly populations. Less food for pollinators means fewer plants get pollinated — a ripple effect on the entire ecosystem.
Stepping off the trail also compacts the soil, making it harder for plants to grow. Compacted soil holds less oxygen and water, which ephemerals need to survive. It also increases runoff and erosion, which can wash away seeds and delicate roots. Unintentional trail creation is another major issue. When hikers cut corners or step around mud, it encourages others to follow, widening trails and expanding the footprint of human impact. Over time, this damages more plants and makes it harder for the forest floor to recover.
To protect spring ephemerals and other delicate plant life, it’s essential to stay on established trails even when they’re muddy or rocky. If you need to avoid mud, step directly in it rather than walking around it. Use rock, gravel, and hard-packed soil when crossing wet or fragile areas. Avoid creating new paths and stick to official trail markers. If you’re hiking with a dog, keep them leashed to prevent them from wandering into sensitive areas.
Spring ephemerals are a gift — a fleeting reminder of the changing seasons and the resilience of nature. By sticking to the trail and treading carefully, we can ensure that these delicate plants return year after year, delighting hikers and supporting the forest ecosystem. Protect the blooms. Stay on the trail. 

​Chainsaws are not allowed in designated wilderness areas primarily to preserve the natural soundscape and minimize human impact on the environment. Wilderness areas are intended to remain as wild and unaltered as possible, allowing visitors to experience nature without the intrusion of modern mechanization. The noise generated by chainsaws disrupts the peace and tranquility that wilderness areas are meant to protect. These areas are designated for solitude and a deep connection with the environment, free from the distractions of technology. By limiting the use of motorized tools, including chainsaws, the wilderness experience remains authentic and immersive for all visitors.

Another reason chainsaws are prohibited is to minimize environmental disruption. Chainsaws, while effective, can lead to faster deforestation or damage to habitats if not used carefully. Wilderness areas are protected under the 1964 Wilderness Act, which emphasizes the preservation of ecological balance and biodiversity. By restricting motorized equipment, the process of maintaining trails or clearing fallen trees in these areas must be done manually, encouraging a more deliberate, low-impact approach that helps protect plant life, wildlife, and the overall ecosystem. This slower, non-mechanized approach helps reduce soil erosion, prevent the spread of invasive species, and protect the delicate ecosystems within wilderness boundaries.

Lastly, the prohibition of chainsaws helps reinforce the concept of self-reliance and traditional skills in wilderness management. The absence of modern tools like chainsaws encourages the use of hand tools, which require a greater physical effort and time investment. This reflects the core values of wilderness areas, where simplicity and resourcefulness are essential. Visitors and workers alike are encouraged to engage with the environment more thoughtfully and with respect for its limitations, ensuring that the landscape remains undisturbed for future generations. The restriction of chainsaws ultimately aligns with the wilderness area's goal of preserving the land’s pristine nature and ensuring its long-term sustainability.

​In wilderness areas, crosscut saws are often used instead of chainsaws because they align with the principles of low-impact conservation. These traditional tools are quiet, preserving the natural soundscape, and allow for a more intimate, hands-on connection with the environment. Unlike chainsaws, which can quickly disrupt the peace and disturb wildlife, crosscut saws require human power and skill, making the work slower but more sustainable. Using crosscut saws encourages careful planning and thoughtful decision-making, ensuring that any intervention in the wilderness is as minimal as possible. This traditional method also fosters a sense of respect for the land, honoring the wilderness area's intent to remain free of modern machinery.

Additionally, crosscut saws are preferred because they cause less damage to the environment. Chainsaws are efficient but can be overused, leading to more rapid removal of trees and increased risk of habitat destruction. In contrast, crosscut saws allow workers to approach their tasks with greater precision, focusing on only what is necessary to maintain trails or clear obstructions. This slower, more deliberate method reduces the likelihood of collateral damage to surrounding plants and wildlife. By using crosscut saws, wilderness stewards uphold the balance between maintaining access and preserving the untouched quality of the environment, ensuring that wilderness areas remain wild and undisturbed for future generations.

As we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Wilderness Act, we must reflect on both its significance and the complex history it intersects. Signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson on September 3, 1964, the Act was a landmark in American environmental policy, creating the National Wilderness Preservation System, which now safeguards over 111 million acres of wild landscapes. While this legislation marked a pivotal moment in the conservation movement, it’s essential to acknowledge that these lands were never "untrammeled" in the way the Act defined. For thousands of years, Indigenous peoples have lived, stewarded, and thrived on these landscapes, long before they were designated as "wilderness."
The Wilderness Act was innovative for its time, offering legal protection to areas where nature could exist without the imprint of modern civilization. However, the language of the Act—describing wilderness as a place "where man himself is a visitor who does not remain"—overlooked the deep, ongoing relationship between Indigenous communities and their ancestral lands. These lands were, and continue to be, central to Indigenous cultures, histories, and livelihoods. As we honor the Act, it is crucial to recognize that what was framed as "preservation" often involved the erasure of Indigenous presence, stories, and rights to these lands.
Margaret Murie, known as the "Grandmother of the Conservation Movement," was a key figure in advocating for the passage of the Wilderness Act. While her work was instrumental in protecting wild landscapes like the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, it’s important to remember that these areas were not empty or untouched. Indigenous peoples had been stewards of these lands for millennia, managing ecosystems and living sustainably. The Muries’ contributions to conservation were significant, but our understanding of wilderness today must evolve to include the perspectives and rights of the Indigenous peoples who were, and still are, the original guardians of these landscapes.
As we mark this 60th anniversary, we celebrate the Wilderness Act's achievements while also recognizing the need for a more inclusive approach to conservation. Honoring the Act should go hand in hand with acknowledging the enduring presence of Indigenous peoples on these lands and supporting their sovereignty and stewardship. The future of wilderness conservation must embrace this holistic view, ensuring that protected areas are not only preserved for their ecological value but also respected for their cultural and historical significance. By doing so, we can forge a path that honors both the legacy of the Wilderness Act and the deep, ancestral connections that Indigenous peoples have to the land.

It's cool to stay cool!
Understanding Heat-Related Illnesses: Stay Safe in the Summer Heat

As summer is upon us, many of us eagerly embrace the sun’s warmth and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the risks associated with excessive heat exposure. Heat-related illnesses can range from mild discomfort to severe conditions that require immediate medical attention. In this blog post, we'll explore the different types of heat-related illnesses, their symptoms, prevention tips, and what to do if you or someone you know shows signs of being affected.

Types of Heat-Related Illnesses

1. Heat Cramps: These are painful muscle spasms that often occur during or after intense physical activity in hot weather. They are caused by dehydration and loss of electrolytes.

2. Heat Exhaustion: This is more severe than heat cramps and can occur when the body loses too much water and salt through sweating. Symptoms may include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and fainting.

3. Heat Stroke: This is the most serious heat-related illness and requires immediate medical attention. Heat stroke can occur when the body’s temperature regulation fails, and body temperature rises to dangerous levels (above 103°F or 40°C). Symptoms include confusion, hot and dry skin (no sweating), rapid heartbeat, and unconsciousness.

Symptoms to Watch For

Recognizing the symptoms of heat-related illnesses is crucial for timely intervention:

Heat Cramps: Muscle pain or spasms, usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs.

Heat Exhaustion: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, headache, cool and clammy skin, and a weak pulse.

Heat Stroke: High body temperature (above 103°F or 40°C), altered mental state or behavior, confusion, hot and dry skin (no sweating), rapid and strong pulse, and possible unconsciousness.

Prevention Tips

To prevent heat-related illnesses, follow these tips:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.
  
Stay Cool: Seek out shade or air-conditioned environments during the hottest parts of the day (usually midday to late afternoon). Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and use hats and sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
  
Take Breaks: If engaging in physical activity outdoors, take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors. Pace yourself and listen to your body.
  
Monitor Vulnerable Individuals: Keep an eye on young children, elderly individuals, and those with chronic medical conditions who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.

What to Do if Someone Shows Signs of Heat-Related Illness

If someone shows symptoms of heat-related illness:

Move them to a cooler place: Bring them indoors or into the shade.
  
Cool them down: Use cold compresses, ice packs, or a cool bath or shower to lower their body temperature.
  
Hydrate: Offer them water or a sports drink (if conscious and able to swallow) to help rehydrate.

Seek Medical Attention: If symptoms worsen or if the person shows signs of heat stroke (high body temperature, confusion, unconsciousness), call emergency services immediately.

By understanding the risks of heat-related illnesses and taking proactive steps to stay safe in hot weather, you can enjoy summer activities while minimizing health risks. Remember to stay hydrated, stay cool, and stay informed about the symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Together, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer season for everyone.

Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the sunshine responsibly!

    by Anne Markham Bailey

​    We drop into a narrow canyon in a gap between storms. The narrow creek rushes beside us and off the bluff, water aloft and falling into the larger creek below. The hemlocks begin to fill the mid-story as we descend. We move more quickly than is typical on a Forest Bathing immersion because we want to reach the rock shelter before the next line of weather arrives. Still, we move into silence after our initial introductions and safety protocols at the top of the trail. The forest begins to take us in as we begin to open.
    We are hosting four military veterans on this immersive Forest Bathing session, a beta session for a new program for military veterans that we are launching and seeking to fund.  For over two years I have collaborated with Janice Barrett, the Bankhead Outreach and Education Coordinator at Wild Alabama on a monthly day-long Forest Bathing program in the Bankhead National Forest.  In heat and in cold, we guide participants into deep connection with what is now being termed the more-than-human world rather than nature. The term nature implies a separation between humans and everything else (air/water/rocks/trees), when in actuality, none such separation exists. We move into the senses through guided prompts,  and participants most often feel the reality of our connectedness. This process yields impressive evidence-based benefits for physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being.
    In addition to the military veterans on this blustery day, we are hosting Sheila Holifield, Regional Public Relations Specialist for the Southern District of the US Forest Service. Sheila is writing an article on the launch of our new Forest Bathing program Forest Bathing For Veteran Wellness.  Wild Alabama has applied for an NEEF grant to fund the new program. (Sadly, we did not get the grant.)  The Forest Service launched a new initiative that focuses on how nature connects us, and our program is a good fit for an article. Our program is different from the wilderness programs for veterans. We developed a protocol for persons with disabilities as well as for those who can hike the relatively short distance into the steep narrow canyon. The program does not require out-of-state travel, and is workable as a day trip.
    We begin the program by noticing the feeling of breathing, a crucial relationship in our lives that we typically ignore. This is an opportunity to notice how much we are isolated in our thoughts, even though we are made for connection. We are only connected with all of being regardless of our beliefs or ideas. When we breathe, we engage with the living air so that we might live. We can explore this relationship by noticing the details of our experience. What does it feel like to be a body breathing? Does anything shift when a person becomes aware of the air as a fundamental ally?
    The sky darkens and the birds are silent. The storms breaks as we settle into our bodies. Torrents of water stream through the tulip poplars, oaks and hemlocks. The creek gushes, The waterfall roars. Together in the rock shelter, we notice the lightening and thunder beyond the veil of rain. We move through the program protocols, coming into a sharing circle after each invitation to notice with the senses, exploring an expansive relationship with the forest - the trees, the water, the stone, and the sky.  Several participants voice the power of the dramatic flow of water.  All express gratitude for the experience of the storms from within the rock shelter.  Eventually we make our way back up the trail after the storms have passed, after our final sharing circle.
    A week later Janice and I facilitate a follow-up session with the veterans on Zoom to gather feedback. The veterans want more. They want to offer the program to more veterans. They want to do more Forest Bathing. They felt the power of our fundamental connection as beings. They feel the support of planetary forces such as gravity, water, and air.  They resonate with the trees, and the soil. I take notes.
    In the summer of 2023, I made a promise to a young veteran. His name is Joel Cruz, and he participated in a Wild Alabama Forest Bathing program with Janice and me. He felt the healing power of the Forest Bathing practice, and he wanted more veterans to be able to experience the benefits. I decided then that I would find a way to start a program and to find funding for the Forest Bathing For Veteran Wellness program. Six months later, we were setting up the first exploratory program through a VFW in Birmingham, and Joel was helping with the process.
    We know that this program will grow so that we can reach more veterans. If you have any connections to funding sources or wish to support this effort to bring healing and well-being to veterans, please reach out to me!  [email protected]
    -Want to learn more about Forest Bathing? https://www.annemarkhambailey.com/forestbathingfaqs
  -Want to learn more about Forest Bathing with Wild Alabama? https://www.wildal.org/forest-bathing.html
    Want to donate to the work of Wild Alabama? Donate now.