A Force for Nature: Paul Schaefer’s Adirondack Legacy
Listen to the latest episode of ADK Talks podcast featuring author David Gibson.
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:
Blue Mountain Lake
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 inspired by wild places, this episode will give you a new appreciation for the people and stories behind the Park’s protection.
Mt. Colden, Mt. Jo and Wright Peak in the Adirondacks.
Never miss our latest episodes and recommendations.
Subscribe to ADK Talks on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music to stay informed about the people behind the best places to visit, stay, eat, shop, and explore in the Adirondacks.
Sign up for our weekly newsletter for updates and recommendations on the best places to eat, shop, stay, and do things in the Adirondacks.
We would love to hear from you if you have any questions or comments! Please email us at info@adktaste.com.
Love the show?
Rate & review us—it helps other Adirondack lovers find us to discover more ADK insights.
Subscribe and never miss our insider stories about the best people, places, and history of the Adirondacks.
Share this episode with someone who loves history, travel, or the Adirondack Park. Let's spread the love for the Adirondacks together and build a community of conservation supporters!
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 info@adktaste.com or use the form available at ADKTaste.com.
More ADK Talks podcast episodes.
Love the Adirondacks? You’ll love our podcast. We take listeners beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of the Adirondacks. We share stories from the people behind the best places to eat, shop, stay and explore in the ADK.
