Laguna Wilderness Press Information

Laguna Wilderness Press is a non-profit press dedicated to publishing books about the presence, preservation and importance of wilderness environments. Founded in 2002, the press was established out of a concern for the need to balance change, quality of life, and the preservation of indigenous cultures and wilderness environments, especially within or near urban centers. In an effort to increase public awareness of these issues, Laguna Wilderness Press publishes books that feature the work of concerned artists, photographers, and environmentalists. Our books move in two directions: (1) to depict nature and pristine wilderness areas through photography and essay; (2) to focus on changing landscape and the impact of urban growth, technology, and development on natural beauty and resources. The first book in the series, Nature’s Laguna Wilderness (publication date August 2003), by Ron Chilcote, depicts the Laguna Wilderness, a controversial and endangered open space that is located in South Orange County, California, an area that is development prone and highly congested. Evocative color photographs from all parts of the Laguna Wilderness document the region while text describes the historical and geographical background of the area. With 79 color images—including 57 in full-page plates—and four maps interspersed with text, the book carries regional issues and educational efforts to a new level of sophistication and quality. Future volumes will also focus on the Laguna Wilderness as well as other important and endangered environmental regions. These volumes will provide detail on the effort to balance change and human need with wilderness preservation through the extensive use of photography, art projects, and public involvement programs. The books will include information on history and archeology, flora and fauna, and the impact of urban growth on nature.