Preservation of forests as a measure of public safety

Delivered at the 17th National Irrigation Congress in Spokane, 1909, this address captures a moment when a Brazilian engineer stepped onto an American stage to champion a cause that still resonates today. He weaves gratitude for his hosts with a clear-eyed analysis of why forests matter far beyond timber, positioning them as essential safeguards against floods, droughts, and the broader instability of water supplies.

Drawing on the pioneering ideas of Theodore Roosevelt and Gifford Pinchot, the speaker explains how healthy woodlands act like natural reservoirs, slowing runoff, preserving soil, and buffering communities from extreme weather. He links these principles to emerging irrigation and dry‑farming techniques, suggesting that coordinated land‑use policies could turn arid regions into resilient, livable landscapes.

Beyond technical insight, the speech offers a rare glimpse into early 20th‑century international collaboration on environmental stewardship. Listeners will appreciate its blend of scientific argument, heartfelt advocacy, and historical perspective—reminding us that the conversation about forests and public safety began over a century ago.