Land Ownership, Land Management, and Land Use

Abstract

This chapter discusses current and historical land ownership, management, and land use in the U.S. There is a particular emphasis on the work of the federal land managing agencies involved in stewardship of approximately one-third of the country’s land, usually with a multi-purpose remit. Whereas much of the land remains fertile and productive, there are increasing areas of degraded land. The Dust Bowl is described as the worst environmental disaster in the U.S., illustrating the fragility of the land. Agriculture, forestry, and land management for conservation and recreation are discussed. Management of land for carbon storage is briefly introduced. Increasing urbanization is acknowledged. Information presented in this Chapter provides a backdrop to the ecological restoration activities that are increasingly necessary to repair the green infrastructure of the U.S.