The East Bay Regional Park District is featured in a new book published by Wilderness Press titled “Living Landscape.” According to Wilderness Press’ website, “Living Landscape” traces the East Bay Regional Park District’s 75-year history, from its beginnings in the depths of the Great Depression when voters approved a tax hike to its establishment as the largest and most innovative regional park agency in the U.S. The agency’s unwavering focus and sophisticated methods have allowed it to preserve 100,000 acres of public parklands in 65 parks throughout San Francisco Bay Area’s East Bay.

The book explores the politically charged annexation of new territory in 1964, board members whose controversial tactics nearly brought the agency to its knees, the clashes of “pure” open-space advocates with those favoring increased public access to parks and many more pivotal moments. Set against the coming-of-age of the environmental movement, the book reveals how these extraordinary events unfolded through the eyes and words of people behind the scenes. “Living Landscape” informs and surprises readers interested in the environment, California history, politics, law or simply a good story.

Wilderness Press is taking pre-orders for “Living Landscape,” which was written by Laura McCreery, oral historian with University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Governmental Studies, in cooperation with the East Bay Regional Park District. Pre-orders can be placed at Wilderness Press or by phone at 800-443-7227. The books will be shipped as soon as the book arrives from the printer in mid-May and will also be available at local bookstores and district interpretive centers.

Many of the photographs in the book were shared by local park users who enjoy photography and are part of the East Bay Regional Park District online Flickr group. If you would like to see our beautiful parks or share your photos for others to view, go to flickr.

Beverly Lane is vice-president of the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors. Her ward includes Central Contra Costa County from San Ramon through Concord.