It is a scientific fact that the occasional contemplation of natural scenes of an impressive character, articularly if this contemplation occurs in connection with relief from ordinary cares, change of air and change of habits, is favorable to the health and vigor of men and especially to the health and vigor of their intellect beyond any other conditions which can be offered them, that it not only gives pleasure for the time being but increases the subsequent capacity for happiness and the means for securing happiness. (FrederickL aw Olmsted, 1865)

When Frederick Law Olmsted wrote these words in his 1865 report on the Yo Semite Valleyand the adjacent grove of "Big Trees" there was no National Park Service, nor was such a thing as a Landscape Architect. The expansionists, and settlers were mostly concerned with development,mining, farming and making the environment safe for the human species.

At that time,the human race was just beginning to comprehend the value and finitivity of the precious resource called land.