The Environmental Legacy of Military Operations

Brief Summary

The Environmental Legacy of Military Operations by Judy Ehlen provides a comprehensive examination of the intersection between military operations and environmental concerns. The book is a compilation of 14 articles, each exploring the application of engineering geology principles to military and environmental contexts. The content ranges from evaluating battlefield terrains to discussing the geoenvironmental legacies of significant military endeavors, such as the Rock of Gibraltar and erosion patterns at Fort Leonard Wood.

Main Themes and Topics

The book delves into the balance between military objectives and environmental sustainability. Key themes include the analysis of battlefield terrains for military advantage, understanding and predicting natural fracture systems in enemy structures, and addressing the environmental impacts of military engineering projects. By focusing on case studies like the Rock of Gibraltar, the book underscores how military projects leave lasting geological and environmental footprints.

Writing Style and Tone

The writing in The Environmental Legacy of Military Operations is scholarly and technical, catering primarily to an audience with a background in engineering geology or military studies. The tone remains analytical throughout, providing detailed insights into complex geological processes and their military applications. Despite its technical nature, the book succeeds in maintaining clarity and cohesiveness across different articles.

Criticism

One potential criticism of the book could be its highly specialized content, which may not appeal to a general audience. Readers without a background in geology or military engineering might find the detailed analyses and technical jargon challenging to navigate. Additionally, the segmented structure of presenting articles might lead to a lack of flow for those expecting a continuous narrative.