Progress of Protection of the Environment and Resources in the United States - A Historical Survey

State and Federal legislative actions intended to improve and to preserve the quality of our environment and to conserve our natural resources were developed and implemented in a logical sequence, synchronized with our own social development and awareness of the need for specific legislative, punitive, or constructive actions. At all times, the desired legislation was developed through a consensus of opinions, needs, and costs that were to be incurred by the affected parties. In some cases, the Federal Government found it necessary to increase its budget allocations in areas where an immediate relief was needed and large losses were anticipated.