TAMING THE FLOOD: A HISTORY AND NATURAL HISTORY OF RIVERS AND WETLANDS. By Jeremy Purseglove.

(1988) 1989 reprint. 4to (192 x 253mm). Ppxii,307. Colour and b/w photographs, illustrations by Rodney Ingram. Blue cloth, spine titled in gilt.

The history of the conflict between land-drainage and conservation. The most useful reference work on the subject". From the Lancashire mosses and the Derwent Ings, Otmoor and the Fens, to Romney Marsh and the Somerset Levels Jeremy Purseglove traces the history and natural history of our rivers and wetlands, describing in vivd detail both the beauty of these strange and ancient landscapes, and the often disastrous results of attempts to tame them. Drawing on his own experience, he shows that with care and imagination we can preserve our fast-disappearing marshland habitats - the result of an astonishing coming together of man and nature over the centuries. He not only analyses the conflicting demands on our rivers and wetlands by also outlines practical proposals for their protection and use. Beautifully written and magnificently illustrated with specially commissioned photographs, line drawings, and maps, this book serves both as as a celebration of the richness of the British countryside, and as a warning of the legacy of loss and destruction we could so easily leave to future generations". Chapters include:- River versus drain; The fear of the flood - traditional attitudes to wetlands; The winning of the waters - a history of the fight against flooding until the post-war era; The wasting of the waters - the real cost of orthodox river management; Riverside riches - the need for management on wet land and some alternative economic uses; Civilizing the rivers - the new approach to river management; Creative flow - rules for good practice in river management; The last-ditch stand - the wetlands debate, 1974-1988.