But first you have to write about it.
Find yourself in the forest and tell us how you got there, what surprised you, and why you love the wilderness and you can win a signed copy of Pennsylvania Wilds: Images from the Allegheny National Forest, a hardcover coffee-table book that's perfect for Father's Day gift-giving. That doesn't leave a lot of time, but if you promise to post your story by 3 p.m. on Thursday I can pick the winner and send the book in priority mail.
The book includes an illustrated history, contemporary essays, and the fine-art photography of Ed Bernik. Tucked inside the back cover is a Forest Companion CD with suggestions on what to see and do while you're there.
As one of the founders of Forest Press, I had the opportunity to work with a talented team of photographers and designers to expore the idea of geotourism, defined as "Tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place-- its environment, heritage, aesthetics, culture and the well-being of its residents." The book, released in 2006, was our first project. Jonathan Tourtellot, director of sustainable destinations for the National Geographic Society, graciously agreed to write the foreword.
About the contest:
- Write about your favorite forest; it doesn't have to be in Pennsylvania
- 300 words max.
- photos optional
- Deadline: Thurs., June 14, 3 p.m. EST
- Essays will be entered in a random drawing, with one winner chosen
- Book will be sent priority mail Thurs. afternoon
Be sure to tag your stories with "PA Wilds," so I can find them.
I suppose I could leave a trail of bread crumbs, but if you'd like to learn more about the book, it's probably best to visit the Forest Press web site.
Happy trails!
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Comments: 48
Can't wait to find out more about your press...how long have you had it running? I've always wanted to start my own publishing company.
Is this your first release from Forest Press?
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Thanks.
Isabella, Shane and Liz--it's not too late to enter. I've read your stories right along, and I know you have a special way of capturing the spirit of the great outdoors. Submit your short pieces before 3 p.m. EST on Thurs. and you will be eligible to win the book. Simply tag with PA Wilds and post to Mr Bill's group, wandering and pondering. Oh how I wish I had copies for every one of you!
Mike, you are certainly entitled to your opinion. But we hope that by bringing the history of the forest to more readers-- and encouraging them to come experience the forest for themselves-- they will want to preserve our natural treasures. If you read the reviews on amazon.com, you will see that this is more than a coffee-table book. It includes an illustrated history and contemporary essays along with Ed's inspiring images.
Pennsylvania was clear cut back in the 1800s. With visionary leadership and careful tending, Penn's Woods has come back. The second- and third-generation forests are home to nationally designated wilderness areas, wild and scenic rivers, national scenic byways, and if I'm not mistaken, more state parks than any other state in the nation. We can't afford to take that for granted.