What are some benefits of wilderness?
Wilderness contributes to the ecologic, economic and social health and well being of our citizens, our country and our world. The benefits these areas provide are as diverse as the areas themselves and are highly valued. • Water and Air –Americans value wilderness most because these areas are sources of clean water and air. Today, citizens drink water that flows from Wilderness and breathe air that is replenished by the filtering action of plants and forests found there. These benefits transcend the boundaries of wilderness. Preserving wilderness preserves clean water and air. • Wildlife –Americans value the wildlife that is protected in wilderness, from grizzly bears to wildflowers. Wilderness protects natural processes, including natural disturbances like fire, which give rise to rich biodiversity so critical to the health of the global environment. Preserving wilderness preserves wildlife. • Recreation –Wilderness was created for the use and enjoyment of the American people. Yearly,
