Book SummaryThe Emerald Mile, by Kevin Fedarko

1-Page Summary1-Page Book Summary of The Emerald Mile

Exploration and Development: Tracing the Progressive Transformations within the Grand Canyon and Adjacent to the Colorado River.

Kevin Fedarko's "The Emerald Mile" thoroughly explores the intricate relationship between human aspirations and the dynamic interplay between the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon. He delves into the history of exploration, the audacity involved in constructing dams, and the development of a unique riverside society, all bound together by their deep-seated dedication to preserving the wild essence of the canyon. Central to the story is the swift journey of the dory known as Emerald Mile, which unfolds amid a massive flood and the looming threat of a disastrous dam collapse in 1983.

Venturing into the unexplored expanse referred to as the Great Unknown.

Fedarko delves into the view that initially, the Grand Canyon was seen as an obstacle to economic prosperity. The story chronicles the monumental and historic importance of the dam. It is thought that Don García López de Cárdenas, serving under Coronado, may have been the initial European to behold the canyon's magnificence, potentially from a lookout at the South Rim called Desert View. They were in awe of the expansive skies, but ultimately felt it was barren and retreated.

Despite the passage of time, the canyon retained its mysterious and dangerous allure, remaining labeled as "unexplored" on the most accurate maps of that period. John Wesley Powell, a Civil War veteran who had sacrificed an arm, was deeply enthralled by the prospect of a challenge and held a significant interest in the study of geology. In 1869, Powell spearheaded an expedition, navigating the uncharted waters of the Colorado River along the Grand Canyon's meandering path, with a crew assembled expressly for the mission. They courageously navigated the erratic currents and endured harsh circumstances, overcoming a multitude of obstacles, a scarcity of provisions, and the sorrowful demise of three individuals. The Colorado River is known for its unpredictable and forceful nature, characterized by swift currents and substantial sediment accumulation.

Fedarko's narrative alters the viewpoint to emphasize the belief that the canyon's wild state should be maintained and left undisturbed. He juxtaposes this view with the later recognition of its deep scientific and cultural significance. The Spaniards, intent solely on amassing riches for their sovereign, failed to notice the wonders that lay within the gorge. Powell set out on his expedition with a scientific purpose, intent on mapping the terrain's features and uncovering the secrets concealed within its geological formations. His explorations laid the groundwork for acknowledging the canyon's vastness and antiquity, simultaneously cultivating an appreciation for its splendor that later motivated conservation initiatives. The account provided by Fedarko emphasizes the pivotal shift in perspective from exploiting the river for individual benefits to appreciating its inherent splendor.

The Spanish Conquistadors were the initial observers of the immense and majestic canyon. Setting the Stage for Future Exploration

Fedarko introduces the backdrop for discovery by narrating the tales of Spanish conquerors, emphasizing their shortsighted pursuit of quick riches. He employs Cárdenas's experience, which fell short in conveying the profound essence and power of the canyon, to illustrate how the sixteenth-century obsession with gold overshadowed the appreciation of the canyon's immense scale, antiquity, and distinctive allure. The gorge has always presented a considerable barrier to human endeavors.

Pioneering journeys led by John Wesley Powell: Embarking on a river journey to uncover the secrets of the canyon.

John Wesley Powell is recognized by Fedarko for his groundbreaking journey in 1869 that mapped the Colorado River and unveiled the secrets of the Grand Canyon. He highlights Powell's determination to navigate through uncharted territories, facing significant risks and challenges to map the last unexplored region on the map of the United States. The author highlights Powell's thorough approach, marked by exact elevation calculations and the naming of significant rapids along the river, showcasing his systematic approach to science.

Understanding the river's power and the deep significance that the canyon possesses is of great value to both scientific and cultural fields.

Fedarko explores the broader significance of both the river and the canyon, extending his narrative beyond the accomplishments of the early explorers. He emphasizes the unique attributes of the Colorado River, drawing attention to its steep gradient, unpredictable nature, and significant load of silt, describing it as the "most American of rivers"—a powerful and unpredictable entity that shaped the future of the Western United States. The author depicts the canyon as a significant marker of Earth's geological past. The river's relentless sculpting has unveiled each stratum, revealing a timeline of geological periods from the primordial Vishnu schist to the relatively younger Kaibab limestone. The gorge serves as a powerful emblem of the unyielding power of erosion and the immense span of geologic time, evoking deep respect with its nearly two-billion-year history.

The significance of dams in the pursuit of mastery over nature.

Fedarko delves into the capricious nature of the Colorado River and its crucial role in supporting agriculture and producing hydroelectric power, which led to attempts to harness its power. The evolution began with simple irrigation systems and culminated in the construction of substantial-scale structures that transformed the river into a managed resource.

Initial attempts to control the river's flow: The disaster struck both the Imperial Valley and the waterways utilized for irrigation in agriculture.

Fedarko recounts the story of the Imperial Valley...