Federal Land and Resource Utilization Policy

Abstract

The policy of the Federal Government in the context of energy seems amorphous and inconsistent, but almost all the trends seem in the direction of ensuring adequate and economic energy supplies; employing sound land management for wise and efficient use of public lands and energy resources underlying them; and protecting the public health and safety at the same time it protects the environment. Goals are clear but methods are controversial. From 1965 to 1975 emphasis has shifted from recreation and natural beauty to the environment and now to prime energy concerns. For the next decade it seems certain that demands from an industrialized energy system to fuel a suddenly stagnant economy will strengthen the role of the executive branch of the government. (PCS)