A Force for Nature: David Gibson on Paul Schaefer’s Adirondack Legacy

What does it take to protect six million acres of wild Adirondack Park? In this episode of ADK Talks, we sit down with David Gibson, conservation leader and author of A Force for Nature: Paul Schaefer’s Adirondack Coalitions. 

Gibson takes us deep into the remarkable story of Paul Schaefer, the man who rallied hunters, anglers, labor unions, conservationists, and everyday citizens into powerful coalitions that forever changed the fate of the Adirondacks, preserving its wilderness and beauty for generations to come.

Together we explore:

• Paul Schaefer’s origins — from childhood explorations in Schenectady and Baker’s Mills to his lifelong passion for wilderness.
  
  
• The fight for “Forever Wild” — how Schaefer defended Article 14 of the New York State Constitution and blocked massive dam projects that would have flooded the Upper Hudson and Moose River Plains.
  
  
• Adirondack coalitions explained — how Schaefer connected unlikely allies, from hunting clubs to labor unions, to stand together for conservation.
  
  
• Lessons for today — Schaefer’s legacy is not just a story of the past, but a source of inspiration and empowerment in the era of climate change. It demonstrates how ordinary citizens can still make a significant impact in the fight for conservation.
  
  
• David Gibson’s perspective — his personal connection to Schaefer, his role as co-founder of Adirondack Wild: Friends of the Forest Preserve, and why he continues the fight for wilderness today.
  
  

Whether you’re a lifelong Adirondacker or simply inspired by wild places, this episode will give you a new appreciation for the people and stories behind the Park’s protection.

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Paul Schaefer
• Union College Kelly Adirondack Center
• Adirondack Wild: Friends of the Forest Preserve
• Get the “A Force for Nature”: Syracuse University Press
• Siamese Pond Wilderness
• Adirondack Interpretive Center (AIC) in Newcomb

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What part of Paul Schaefer's story resonated with you the most? Got a question about the Adirondacks you'd like us to answer on air? Please send it to [email protected] or use the form available at ADKTaste.com.

ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and experience in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

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