Doctrine of the Public Trust

The Doctrine of the Public Trust is a legal principle that holds certain natural resources—like rivers, lakes, and coastline—are preserved for public use and cannot be owned or sold by individuals. This doctrine ensures that these vital resources are protected for future generations, emphasizing that they are held in trust by the government for the benefit of all citizens. Essentially, it underlines the government's responsibility to manage and safeguard these resources, ensuring access and maintaining their integrity for public enjoyment and ecological health.