National Geographic March 1979

Our National Wildlife Refuges { A Chance to Grow}
At a critical juncture, writes National Geographic Society President Robert E. Doyle, clear and equitable decisions are needed to assure the future of a vast public domain.
Our National Wildlife Refuges { Island, Prairie, Marsh, and Shore}
Four distinctly different wildlife refuges show their wonders to naturalist Charlton Ogburn and photographer Bates Littlehales. A special tear- out guide details many of the 390 preserves.
Triumph and Tragedy on Annapurna
An American women’s team conquers the world’s tenth tallest mountain. Then a fall takes the lives of two. Arlene Blum, Irene Miller, and Vera Komarkova relate their history- making Himalayan climb.
Belgium: One Nation Divisible
Wed politically after Waterloo, the Flemings and Walloons now plan an amicable separation – – into autonomous regions under one king, flag, and constitution. Article by James Cerruti, with photographs by Martin Rogers.
Nigeria Struggles With Boom Times
After 19 years of independence, a key African nation strives to build a strong democracy and to use its bonanza oil wealth to raise the standard of living of peoples long subjected to colonialism, corruption, and civil strife. Article by Noel Grove, pho;
Triumph and Tragedy on Annapurna { On the Summit}
On top is where you’ ll find the women when a team of female mountaineers reach the summit of Annapurna.
Denver, Colorado’s Rocky Mountain High
Drawing wealth and nourishment from plain and mountain, the mile- high state capital now serves as economic hub of an an entire mid- continent region. John J. Putman and David Cupp report.