Reclaiming the Arid West: The Career of Francis G. Newlands (American West in the Twentieth Century)

"... provides some fascinating insights into the life and times of wealthy and powerful men who made the West." —Journal of the West

"A fascinating study of Newland’s complex professional and personal life..." —Nebraska History

"Unquestionably, serious students of the American West should read this meticulously researched and well-written biography..." —The Journal of Arizona History

"... very well researched..." —American Historical Review

"... an engaging, enjoyable portrait of a fascinating character... " —Water Resources Bulletin

"Through his narrative of Newlands’ life, the author presents a clear and vivid sense of the political battles that led to federal dams and other water reclamation projects in the West. By reclaiming Newlands from the obscurity of history, Professor Rowley provides perspective on our present day battles." —State Environmental Monitor

"... skillfully blends the local and national, and it portrays Newlands with sensitivity and sound critical judgement." —Agricultural History

"... a valuable addition to the field and will be enjoyable reading for historians interested in the American West or natural resource management." —Journal of American History

This biography of Francis Newlands, a key figure in the irrigation of the West and an architect of the modern regulatory state at the beginning of this century, reveals a complicated and sophisticated man who successfully lived a dual political life under a cloud of personal and public scandal.