FROM THE ARCHIVES Redford in search of balance

Robert Redford, the influential actor and environmentalist, passed away at 89. In a 1982 interview, he discussed his Institute for Resource Management (IRM), designed to find a balanced approach between environmental and industrial interests. "Good decisions come from the moderate position," he stated, urging an end to the divisive rhetoric surrounding resource management issues. He expressed optimism for the 20 fellows at the IRM, believing their training would help them tackle complex problems by incorporating various viewpoints. Redford criticized Secretary of the Interior James Watt, calling him "the real extremist" and suggesting that his policies hinder effective environmental stewardship.

He noted that many industry leaders were beginning to recognize the value of the IRM, overcoming initial skepticism about his motives. Redford also pointed to the Marmes Rock Shelter as an example of the pressing need for balanced resource management. He viewed the flooding of the shelter as indicative of a larger, systemic problem that could have been mitigated with better decision-making practices.