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Simple English definitions for legal terms
public trust doctrine
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A quick definition of public trust doctrine:
The public trust doctrine is a legal rule that says certain natural and cultural resources belong to everyone and must be protected for public use. This includes things like lakes, rivers, wildlife, and land. The government is responsible for taking care of these resources so that people can use them for things like drinking water and recreation. The public trust doctrine also makes sure that private property doesn't extend to the ocean.
A more thorough explanation:
The public trust doctrine is a legal principle that states certain natural and cultural resources are preserved for public use. This means that the government protects and maintains these resources for the public's use, and the public is considered the owner of these resources.
Examples of natural resources held in trust can include navigable waters, wildlife, or land. For instance, most lakes and streams in the United States are maintained under the public trust doctrine, typically for the purposes of drinking and recreational activities. This means that the public has the right to use these bodies of water for activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.
The public trust doctrine also prevents private property from extending to the ocean. This means that the public has the right to access and use the ocean for activities like swimming, surfing, and fishing.
Overall, the public trust doctrine ensures that certain natural and cultural resources are protected and maintained for the public's use and enjoyment.