Ten times more land is set aside in state, federal and private nature preserves, parks, forests, wilderness areas and as open range than has been developed. Not only are our open spaces well protected, but U.S. air and water quality have improved dramatically during the last 20 years. For instance, according to the Pacific Research Institute's 1999 Index of Leading Environmental Indicators, major air pollutants have declined dramatically. Our waterways are also improving with the release of organic wastes reduced. However, if environmental progress is to continue we need principles that build on our present successes.
Many government programs encourage or directly cause environmental harm.
For example, the federal policies contribute to urban sprawl. Often, family farms are sold to housing developers when a farmer dies. His heirs, facing a huge tax bill, sell the farm for subdivisions. Ending the death tax would allow those who inherit land to keep the family farm intact. Unfunded federal mandates also contribute to sprawl.