Conflict Over the Establishment of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Abstract

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Lake Superior was established in Wisconsin back in 1970. However, many do not know the lengthy conflict conservation pioneer Gaylord Nelson, Wisconsin U.S. Senator, faced over such a proposition. Many citizens brought their thoughts to light and became very vocal in the matter. Archival materials reveal that those who supported the establishment took stances relating to the economic benefits from tourism as well as conservationists who wanted to see the islands protected. Archival materials also reveal that those who were against the establishment took stances that were more personal based and evoked a lot of emotion. Private landowners did not want to be forced to give up their property while the Ojibwe bands of the Red Cliff and Bad River tribes did not want to cede their reservation land. To truly understand the establishment, having knowledge about why the conflict existed, and how it was navigated, is necessary. Conflict is a significant component to history since it represents a force of change or continuity which has the ability to transform societies. In this historical event, conflict was a force of change amidst continuity because Gaylord Nelson wanted to change the islands’ status so that they would be preserved, or continued, for the future. Through conducted research, it is revealed how compromise was reached in an effort to appeal to all sides. Only by listening to all perspectives can one truly reflect and make an informed thought about the past if one was not there for it. The establishment of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a true testament to how Gaylord Nelson was able to navigate the impasse so that he could preserve and protect the immense beauty, nature, and historic Apostle Islands for generations to come.