The following laws help govern the protection of Prince William Forest Park's natural resources.
The Wilderness Act (1964)
Influences the management of national parks.
The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) (1970)
Established a national policy “to promote efforts which will prevent or eliminate damage to the environment … stimulate the health and welfare of man … and enrich the understanding of ecological systems …” It requires detailed analysis of environmental impacts of any major federal action that significantly affects the quality of the environment. Environmental assessments (EAs) and environmental impact statements (EISs) are written to detail these analyses and to provide forums for public involvement in management decisions.
The Clean Air Act (1970)
Mandates protection of air quality in all units of the National Park Service.
The Clean Water Act (1972)
Was nacted to “restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters” by prohibiting the discharge of pollutants.
