Bioneers, Conservation and Pristine Wilderness

Is there a true dichotomy between 'natural' and 'urban environments'? I wonder, can an environmental leader that advocates conservation and restoration of pristine wilderness also be considered an urban environmental leader? If our population centers are increasingly urban centers, conservation advocates must become more incorporated into urban communities. Without the support of an urban population, conservation of pristine wilderness is impossible.

I have chosen to read "Walking With Spring" by Earl V. Shaffer to investigate this dichotomy. Was Earl ignorant to the impacts of cities? Or was he too a bioneer, wanting to affect positive change in urban environments as well as those of the wilds.

One thing is certain, Earl was a leader. His account of traversing the Appalachian Trail has inspired thousands of through hikers.