David Gelbaum’s Conservation Role

Re “The Man Behind the Land,” Oct. 27: I read with interest your article on David Gelbaum. His generosity has enabled thousands of urban children to experience the magic and beauty of a natural environment where they can explore, learn and grow.

The Wildlands Conservancy sponsors outdoor schools that provide a five-day program to fifth- and sixth-grade students that is hands-on, experiential and standards-based. This is a life-changing event for many of our students. Through participation in the outdoor school’s daily lessons, hikes, visits with on-site animals, evening campfires and more, students witness the balance of nature on a personal level.

Through lessons grounded in the natural sciences and taught in the open air, students develop an appreciation for the world in which they live and better understand their place within it.

Debra Hetrick

Coordinator, LAUSD

Outdoor Ed. Programs

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At first glance it was heartwarming to read this revenge-of-the-nerd story about math-whiz Gelbaum, who has shunned publicity while giving millions to preserve California wilderness and teach youths about nature. But as I read further my admiration turned to disgust.

Many Sierra Club members had been deeply puzzled why the club directorate brought down an Iron Curtain on any discussion the role immigration was playing in driving the state’s runaway population and resulting environmental destruction. Now we know why; Gelbaum bought Sierra Club silence: “I did tell Carl Pope [Sierra Club director] in 1994 or 1995 that if they ever came out anti-immigration, they would never get a dollar from me.” He may have excelled at statistics, but he must have missed the class on exponential growth. Though he can [take credit] for helping conserve 1,179 square miles of California, he must accept blame for supporting the unsustainable population growth causing the destruction of the state’s remaining 162,528 square miles. This is a mere 0.7%, making Gelbaum a massive failure by my calculus.

Tim Aaronson

El Cerrito, Calif.

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“David Gelbaum has shunned publicity while giving millions to preserve California wilderness and teach youths about nature.” What a terrific human being; just what we all should be striving to emulate. A wealthy person who admits that he has more money than his family could ever possibly need is putting the excess to good use, instead of using it to acquire even more.

Jean Bennett

Sun City