The Public Trust Doctrine

What is the Public Trust Doctrine-and why should you care? You'll find the answers in a new, comprehensive Technical Review from The Wildlife Society titled "The Public Trust Doctrine: Implications for Wildlife Management and Conservation in the United States and Canada." The Public Trust Doctrine is an essential element of North American wildlife law, establishing a trustee role for government in the management of natural resources. Fundamentally, the PTD suggests that natural resources are universally important and collectively owned. The public therefore has a right to access these resources for hunting, fishing, trapping, recreation, and other legitimate purposes including non-consumptive uses such as boating and wildlife viewing. The PTD is also a cornerstone of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation, a collection of seven principles that evolved over time and that underpin most modern and historic wildlife legislation in the United States and Canada. Ideal for scholars, students, or professionals, this review synthesizes current research on the PTD, coordinated by 11 scientists and professionals from The Wildlife Society, the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and the Wildlife Management Institute. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the evolution of North America's rich tradition of wildlife management and conservation.