Listening to the Land: Community, Science, Ethics, and Professional Land Stewards

Abstract

Debate rages about the role of government. Some things are best done by individuals. Other essential actions, beneficial to the community, can best be done by people acting together. Land use involves complex interactions between private owners seeking rewards from their property and public agencies charged with maintaining the health and viability of our social and economic systems. The history of rangeland management helps us understand the role of private individuals and the public acting through government. It also suggests a need for strong professional evaluation of facts, data, and actions.