Encounters With the Archdruid: Narratives About a Conservationist and Three of His Natural Enemies

As they explore Lake Powel, a large manmade lake in the Glen Canyon area, Brower laments the lost natural beauty, recalling vibrant ecosystems now submerged in the lake. Despite his aesthetic appreciation for the reservoir’s beauty, he criticizes the loss of habitats and natural wonders, like the Cathedral in the Desert—a natural formation with a waterfall, which no longer exists. Dominy defends the lake’s creation, emphasizing its accessibility and visual appeal, while acknowledging the sacrifices made to build it.

The floating community at Lake Powel, housing merchants and Park Service rangers, adapts to the fluctuating water levels. Dominy, regarded highly for creating the lake, receives admiration and autograph requests. Moving on, the group docks at Aztec Creek and hikes to Rainbow Bridge, where Brower and Dominy resume their debate. Brower views the eventual rise of lake water under the bridge as sacrilege. Dominy cites geological opinions that still water would cause less harm than floods. They also debate silt accumulation, with Dominy dismissing Brower’s concerns. At the end of their hike, they meet two young hikers awed by Brower but unfamiliar with Dominy. The hikers watch in reverence as Brower departs, highlighting his influence on the conservation movement.

In the next section, several voices discuss Dave Brower, portraying him as a prophet-like figure in the conservation movement.