Making America's Public Lands: The Contested History of Conservation on Federal Lands

The federal government owns nearly a quarter of the nation's landscape, totaling over 640 million acres. These public lands, managed by four federal agencies, have played a crucial role in shaping the American economy, state, and identity. The history of these lands, spanning from the early republic to recent controversies, is intertwined with nature, politics, and economics. This book is for citizens who enjoy these lands, providing a greater appreciation for their long and complex history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 April 2022
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

The United States federal government holds an astonishing ownership stake in the nation's vast landscape, encompassing nearly 640 million acres or over a million square miles. This vast expanse, primarily managed by four federal agencies, including the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Park Service, has played a pivotal role in shaping the American economy, state, and identity. These public lands, spanning across diverse regions, have a rich history that intertwines with fundamental aspects of American history, including nature, politics, and economics.

From the inception of the republic, the concept of "public" has been a subject of debate and controversy. It has encompassed visions of homesteaders realizing the ideal of the Jacksonian republic, western ranchers utilizing the open range to promote a free enterprise system, and wilderness activists cherishing these lands as pristine, untouched by human encroachment. Environmental historian Adam Sowards has skillfully synthesized the history of public lands, spanning from the early days of the republic to recent controversies.

The significance of public lands extends beyond iconic national parks like Yellowstone or the Grand Canyon. These lands are scattered across the country, including remote wilderness areas and national forests. As citizens of the United States, we have a collective stake in these lands, as they truly belong to us. This book is intended for those who engage in activities such as camping in national forests, exploring national parks, or simply marveling at the distant wilderness landscapes. By delving into the long and complex history of these places, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry that encompasses them.

Weight: 517g
Dimension: 238 x 161 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781442246959