FYS 1060 THE TAMING OF AMERICAN RIVERS

Wilderness is a concept that is hard to define but still evokes strong emotions in many Americans. Some of the wildest places in the country are centered on rivers that include the Colorado River in Grand Canyon and the Yellowstone River in the namesake National Park. Early accounts by explorers describe wild rivers with perilous floods and harrowing navigational challenges. Today rivers attract thousands of recreationists, supply water for millions, convey tons of freight, produce vital electricity, and are manipulated like giant plumbing systems. Consequently, waterways have been transformed from wild places to managed resources. Students will read selected accounts of rivers by Edward Abby, John McPhee, and Kevin Fedarko, among others.  Students will also explore introductory science readings that focus on human changes to rivers.