Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976

The Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA) governs how the federal government manages public lands in the United States. It establishes a framework for land use planning and requires public involvement in decision-making. FLPMA emphasizes sustainable management, balancing resource development (like mining and grazing) with conservation of natural and cultural resources. It aims to maintain the health of ecosystems while ensuring public access to lands and resources, ultimately promoting responsible stewardship of federal lands for current and future generations.