American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What was the Forest Management Act, and in what year was it established?

1. It regulated urban development, 1900

2. It allowed management of forest preserves, 1891

3. It created national parks, 1916

4. It established forestry education programs, 1930

The correct answer is: It allowed management of forest preserves, 1891

The Forest Management Act, established in 1891, was significant for its role in allowing the federal government to manage forest lands. This act enabled the designation of forest reserves and laid the groundwork for sustainable forest management practices. It marked a critical shift in how forest lands were viewed, transitioning from being seen merely as public domain to being recognized for their ecological and economic value. The act facilitated the protection of forest areas against over-exploitation and set the stage for later conservation efforts. This emphasis on managing forest resources reflected the growing awareness of the importance of forests for maintaining biodiversity, water quality, and recreation, influencing subsequent forest policy and management strategies. The act is often seen as a cornerstone of the modern conservation movement and helped inform future legislative measures aimed at sustainable land management.