President's conservation conferenceIn 1908, the three-day Conference of Governors opened at the White House, called by President Theodore Roosevelt to consider the problems of conservation. It was attended by the governors of the states and territories, the members of the Supreme Court and the Cabinet, scientists, and various national leaders. On 15 May 1908, the governors adopted a declaration supporting conservation. One result was The National Conservation Commission, appointed by Roosevelt on 8 Jun 1908 which prepared the first inventory of the natural resources of the United States with chairmen for water, forests, lands, and minerals. Also, the conference led to annual governors' conferences, and the appointment of 38 state conservation commissions. Throughout his life—before, during and after his presidency—Roosevelt was an ardent and knowledgeable naturalist, which was reflected in his concern for the land while President.« |
