Waterfowl Nesting Site and Wetland Area Restoration near Sutter Buttes, California 1991

Emmet Gowin's 1991 aerial photograph "Waterfowl Nesting Site and Wetland Area Restoration near Sutter Buttes, California" presents a stark, almost abstract, view of a landscape undergoing ecological restoration. Taken from a high vantage point, the image captures the intricate network of man-made channels and levees carved into the landscape, creating a striking contrast against the dark, natural terrain. This work exemplifies Gowin's signature style, utilizing aerial photography to explore the relationship between humanity and the natural world. The meticulous lines and patterns suggest both human intervention and a delicate balance with the environment, raising questions about our impact on the landscape and the potential for its regeneration.