Final answer:
Theodore Roosevelt was a strong supporter of conservation, collaborating with both John Muir and Gifford Pinchot. He established significant forest reserves, wildlife refuges, and national parks, supporting both preservation and regulated use of natural resources.
Step-by-step explanation:
Theodore Roosevelt's position on conservation was one of strong support and action. He agreed with John Muir's views on the intrinsic value of nature and established 148 million acres of forest reserves, over 50 wildlife sanctuaries, and several national parks. Nevertheless, Roosevelt also worked closely with Gifford Pinchot, who was the head of the U.S. Forest Service and shared Roosevelt's views on conservation but leaned towards a more utilitarian approach, promoting the scientific management of forest reserves for public benefit. Together, they quadrupled the nation's forest reserves and were key figures in the early conservation movement.
Roosevelt's commitment to conservation also included efforts to prevent overhunting, through establishing state agencies with hunting regulations, and by fostering the creation of the National Park Service. This dual focus on preservation and regulated use reflected his sportsman perspective and helped to pave the way for future environmental protection initiatives.
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is that Roosevelt supported conservation and worked with John Muir and Gifford Pinchot in this mission. Hence, option (b) is the accurate choice.