Voices for the Islands
Thirty Years of Nature Conservation on the Salish Sea
Voices for the Islands traces the history of conservation efforts in British Columbia, recounting the brave and assiduous work of everyday people toward maintaining a healthy planet.
The Salish Sea, Shelia Harrington notes, is home to some of the rarest, most sensitive ecosystems on Earth. Regional conservationists work hard to preserve these endangered species and ancient flora—and to pave the way for future environmentalists. Many of their efforts begin in unexpected ways, as with quiet land acquisition movements made via partnerships and with private land owners rather than through explosive protests. The efforts of homeowners, Indigenous communities, and public servants are covered, and the book walks through the legal and financial gymnastics of covenants, land trusts, and treaties (and their attendant frustrations) well.
Indeed, fruitful efforts to save Earth and its creatures begin with individuals, Harrington illustrates. The devastating regional effects of settler-colonialism, realty development, and environmental apathy are addressed in relation to individual island ecosystems, resulting in a clear roadmap for future environmental advocates and activists. Past protests are also sources of inspiration, as with the Salt Spring Island protest of 1994, during which women stood naked in front of logging trucks.
Raising awareness to increase the natural connections between people and their land, Voices for the Islands is an educational text.
Reviewed by
Aleena Ortiz
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
