Defines the environmental imagination as the attempt to secure 'a sense of freedom, permanence, and authenticity through communion with nature'. This book reconstructs the environmental imagination from public commentary, legislative records, and other documents. It sheds light on the ways that ideals unify and divide the environmental movement.

Richard Judd and Christopher Beach define the environmental imagination as the attempt to secure a sense of freedom, permanence, and authenticity through communion with nature.

'Fascinating and richly documented. Focusing on two states that have captured the popular imagination, the book combines environmental, political, and cultural history, with political economy added for leavening.' David J. Vail, Bowdoin College 'Anyone interested in the post-World War II development of state environmental policies about water pollution abatement, coastal access, and recreational waterways will find this an especially rich and insightful read.' Environment Magazine