Our Common Ground

“Our Common Ground is a notable scholarly achievement, providing an authoritative history of federal land law and administration. . . . There is an efficiency and elegance in Leshy’s writing. . . . As a result, this isn’t just an authoritative reference book; it is an enjoyable read.”—James R. Skillen, Utah Historical Quarterly

“I found Our Common Ground to be quite a lively read. . . . The book is replete with interesting stories, told through the passage of time and the evolving notions of what America’s public lands are for.”—Andy Kerr

“Finally, we have a truly great book about the federal public lands. John Leshy has used his unequalled knowledge and engaging style to write a comprehensive, inspiring, and lastingly informative masterpiece.”—Charles Wilkinson, author of Crossing the Next Meridian: Land, Water, and the Future of the West

“Our Common Ground is a much-needed chronicle of how the American people decided—wisely and democratically—that nearly a third of the nation’s land surface should remain in our collective ownership and be managed for our common good.”—Dayton Duncan, author of The National Parks: America’s Best Idea

“This history of public lands in America, reflecting prodigious research, illustrates the continuity, tensions, and narratives that persist through time to the present. What a rich history, richly presented. I could not put down this book!”—Lynn Scarlett, former deputy secretary, U.S. Department of the Interior

“Read John Leshy’s masterpiece! John shows us that by questioning and reframing our European-centric public lands history we can begin to right the wrongs of the past. And if we get it right, find common purpose and keep our covenant with future Americans.”—Mark Udall, former U.S. senator, Colorado