WILDERNESS PA-459

Wilderness is an integral part of the American heritage. This Nation was born in wilderness, and from it came the land and materials needed to build a country. The freedom of wild lands, their great open spaces, and their grandeur are interwoven in America's history, art, and literature, and have strongly influenced the shaping of the national character.

The wilderness that witnessed the birth of this Nation and nourished its growth no longer spreads from ocean to ocean. Neither has it all been tamed. Many of these untamed lands, majestic samples of primeval America, are parts of the National Forests of the United States. Here, as wild and just as free as ever, over 14 million acres of wilderness in 84 areas are held in trust by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Forest Service for the use, enjoyment, and spiritual enrichment of the American people.

Nearly 40 years ago the Forest Service pioneered in preserving America's wilderness heritage. Wilderness is irreplaceable and must not all be lost. Inherent in its primeval character are recreational, scientific, educational, and historical values of great benefit to the Nation and its people.

The Forest Service bears with pride its stewardship of these unique lands and has long been dedicated to keeping them intact for this and future generations of Americans.