As part of the 10 Ideas: Generating a Green Future series, a
proposal that can continue to foster growth while keeping it
under control. "If in a given community unchecked popular rule
means unlimited waste and destruction of the natural resources-
soil, fertility, waterpower, forests, game, wild-life generally-
which by right belong as much to subsequent generations as to
the present generation, then it is sure proof that the present
generation is not yet really fit for self-control, that it is
not yet really fit to exercise the high and responsible
privilege of a rule which shall be both by the people and for
the people." - Theodore Roosevelt, 1916 Long before the
juggernauts of suburban development and urban sprawl began to
ravage our purple mountain majesties and fruited plains,
Theodore Roosevelt cautioned the nation against excessive
development. He challenged communities to think with foresight
and to exercise self-control in their dealings with nature. To
do otherwise would be to rob future generations