200 Years of Public Lands Management

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the largest, by acreage, of the federal land management agencies, is currently celebrating the 200^th anniversary of the establishment of the General Land Office.  The General Land Office was merged with the Grazing Service in 1946 to become the BLM we know today.  Also currently being celebrated is the 150^th anniversary of the Homestead Act.  Both of these events were hugely significant in the western migration of Americans through the years and the establishment of modern public lands management practices.  Students of western American history will know that much has changed in 200 years and it hasn’t always been the smoothest run.  Federal land management agencies have had their share of mistakes, as well as successes; but one thing I can say is that the vast majority of land managers I have had the opportunity to work with have been dedicated public servants with a strong will to do what is best for a general public of diverse needs and interests.  Another great movement we are seeing today is a pronounced emphasis on partnerships and community involvement in stewardship and promotion of public lands, something Nevada Outdoor School is proud to be a part of.  You can learn more about the history of public lands management and the BLM at: http://www.blm.gov/wo/st/en/info/history.html

Partnership is Key at Lovelock Cave, Nevada

Here’s to many more years to come of community partnership in successful public lands management along with plenty of opportunities to have fun out there!