The book presents concerns of our society in protecting our environment and the challenges involved in meaningful careers in environmental protection and management. "Estimates by the Environmental Protection Agency indicate that, compared with their numbers in the mid-'70's, the need for environmental professionals will triple by 1980.'" In a conversational writing style the author explores air/water sleuths, transportation clamor, waste/water treatment, erosion fighting, trash menace, the tree harvesting crisis, endangered species, and the search for marine knowledge--specific problem situations and programs throughout the country, causes of the problem, and, prominent scientists in the field. Part 2 focuses on professions in ecology and the life sciences, careers in physical and environmental sciences, and environmental protection careers in engineering. Career requirements, amount of education, and salaries are discussed. Challenging jobs are described, such as: plant scientist, landscape architect, fisheries conservationist, range manager, geologist, meteorologist, chemist, oceanographer, and various engineers. A concluding chapter concerns careers in environmental protection not requiring a college education. References are included for further sources of information. (EA)