A comprehensive overview of the policy debates surrounding U.S. public lands and the natural resources they contain. Bryner traces the origin and evolution of policy, and the current debate in Congress and within the Clinton administration over public lands and natural resources. He also assesses policy options in light of ecological principles and examines the importance of public lands and natural resources in the nation's environmental quality and in the quality of life the environment will provide for future generations. This book will be a useful reference for policymakers, environmental studies students, and anyone concerned with the future of our public lands and natural resources.