The Control of Nature

Scars formed by debris flow in greater Los Angeles during the winter of 1968-1969. The photograph was taken within months of the debris flows.

The Control of Nature (ISBN 0374128901) is a 1989 book by John McPhee that chronicles three attempts (with varying success) to control natural processes. The residents of Heimaey, Iceland saved their harbor by spraying water on the volcanic lava flow threatening to close it off. The Army Corps of Engineers prevents the Mississippi River from changing course, but has had less success in controlling flooding along the river. The residents of the San Gabriel Mountains have had little success in preventing debris flows from destroying their houses.

External links

• The Control of Nature at John McPhee's web site (dead link)