Jet skis, snowmobiles and powerboats have long been green btes noires. The flights offend people who believe they have a right to contemplate nature undisturbed. Blocking the majority of taxpayers from enjoying the parks they supposedly own may please those who prefer a nonpowered approach to nature. But these more physical types may have their fun threatened, too. Today's outdoor enthusiasts don't just enjoy nature.
Purists sniff at such consumerist technophilia.
Most backpacks, cameras and sport-utility vehicles never make it to the mountains. Despite its ascetic ideology, the environmental movement thrives on wealth and pleasure. Its great power comes from the joy that affluent, leisure-rich people take in the outdoors. Republican politicians have learned that lesson the hard way. Greens may be next.