A study investigated the validity of the hypothesis proposed by Frank L. Mott that a study of American magazines could reveal the "social currents" of a given time. The study examined periodicals published from 1966 to 1975 to determine if any evidence of the environmental movement could be found. The investigation revealed that more than 70 specialized environmental periodicals came into existence during that period, with all but 10% continuing to publish. More than 30 English language environmental journals published in foreign countries began to circulate in the United States. In addition, the older conservation magazines began to take on an environmental look, and the various states began to publish environmental newsletters and bulletins. General interest magazines also began to publish large numbers of environmental articles. The findings support the Mott hypothesis. (FL)