Vol. 48 No. 3 (2000)
Research Article

Protecting the Endangered Blank Spots on Maps: The Wilderness Names Policy of the United States Board on Geographic Names

Published 2000-12-01

Abstract

Abstract

The policy of the United States Board on Geographic Names of discouraging new name proposals for formally designated wilderness areas embodies a radical concept: creating name-restricted zones to protect a specific, culturally defined characteristic of an area. This article traces the evolution and rationale of this policy and, using case studies, examines some of the implications and practicalities of its implementation.

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