The citizens of the United States own over 726 million acres of land that are managed by the federal government. This public estate includes National Forests, National Parks, Bureau of Land Management lands, National Wildlife Refuges, historic and cultural sites, and wilderness areas.

These lands are a treasury of natural and historic resources, and an integral part of our American heritage. They represent our last best chance to protect wildlife and ecosystems and they provide a bounty of recreational opportunities.

The public lands include familiar places like Yellowstone, the Statue of Liberty, and the Grand Canyon. They also encompass equally spectacular, but lesser-known treasures including those pictured here, from the White Mountains of New Hampshire to California's Redwood National Park.

Our thanks to Catherine Aman, Chris J. Calwell and Lori Gomes for the use of their photos.

last revised 8.31.97