The Leopold Report

The Leopold Report, published in 1963, was an influential document that recommended how to manage and protect America’s national parks and wildlife. Named after Forestry Professor Aldo Leopold, it emphasized that parks should prioritize maintaining natural ecosystems and native species, rather than just recreational use. The report advocated for science-based conservation, minimal human interference, and restoring natural habitats to ensure the parks' ecological integrity. Its ideas helped shift wildlife management toward preserving ecosystems, influencing policies to better balance conservation with public enjoyment.