The Public Trust Doctrine

The Public Trust Doctrine is a legal principle that holds certain natural resources, like rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, in trust for the public's use and benefit. It asserts that the government must protect these resources for everyone, not just for private interests. This means that important activities like fishing, swimming, and navigation should be accessible to all, and that governments have a responsibility to maintain and safeguard these resources for current and future generations. The doctrine emphasizes that nature belongs to the public, and its preservation is vital for community well-being.