- October 5, 1931 – Henry B. Ward (Izaak Walton League) to JSA –
Dear Mr. Apperson:
Word has come to me that the Izaak Walton League published in Outdoor America an article concerning the proposed constitutional amendment and plan for forest development in New York State which really does not deserve the support of the League. As a member of the Executive Board responsible for the articles on conservation which appear in Outdoor America and as the chairman of the Committee on Conservation of the National Executive Board, I am anxious to get some further information on this point.
The article in question was not subject to careful examination since it came from a gentleman holding a prominent position in a public educational institution in New York State and supposedly both conservative and acquainted with the field. However I have recently heard that the project does not command the support of the best men in the state and I desire to get fuller information about it. The League will not knowingly support projects which are questionable or calculated to advance special interests. It is however difficult to get full information on these points and we sometimes slip up. I shall be glad if you will give me your frank and even confidential views on this matter.
I realize in writing such a letter to one you might not have the privilege of knowing personally it is desirable to introduce oneself even though I occupy a position in the national organization which my colleagues and friends in it have been willing to give me and which in itself is some evidence of reliability. I might say that you could learn from my good friends Dean Edward Ellery of Union College or Doctor W. R. Whitney of the General Electric Company.
Thanking you for your assistance in this matter, I remain,
Very sincerely yours,
Henry B. Ward, Chairman
Committee on Conservation