"Working forward from ancient times and ancient ecologies to the very recent past, Land of Sunshine is an exploration of the environmental history of greater Los Angeles. Rather than decrying the lost opportunities of "roads not taken," these essays, by nineteen leading geologists, ecologists, and historians, instead consider the changing dynamics both of the city and of nature." "The result is a portrait of Los Angeles that will serve planners, communities, and environmentalists as they look to the past for clues, if not blueprints, for enhancing the quality and viability of cities."--Jacket.