This WAS the forest primeval! The murmuring
      firs and the hemlocks
Disfigured by careless vandals; scarred and
      devoid of foliage
Stand as silent reminders; as proof of some
      human imprudence.
Stand like martyrs of old, hushed and grim
      in the twilight.

This WAS the forest primeval, but where is its
      radiant spirit
Which fore ages before had sheltered and cared
      for its people?
Where is the frollicking Chipmunk, the graceful
      Deer or the Beaver?
Where are the birds whose jubilant notes
      prevaded the woodlands?

Afar they have fled -- dislodged from their
      homes in the forest;
Compelled to retreat to safety or remain to
      a death in the flames
Which lashed by the winds into sweltering
      fury, devoured the timber.
For naught but destruction lies in the path
      of a fire!

- - - - - - - - - -

You who believe in conserving for constant
      possession;
You who include in your heart a love of the
      wild life --
To refresh YOUR mind and spirit by contact
      with Nature
Watch -- lest YOU kindle a spark of
      destruction!