Volume 39, No.2, Winter 2020

This special issue of PERC Reports, supported by the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, explores the many challenges and opportunities facing the ever-changing West. Whether it’s resolving disputes over the use of natural resources, meeting growing demands for outdoor recreation, or reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires, the ever-changing West requires us to adapt. The challenge is to do so in ways that respect property rights, encourage voluntary exchange, and promote cooperation to conserve the region’s precious resources.

A Forest Fix

Jonathan Wood

Wildfires engulf the West year after year. Private partners have shown they’re willing to fund projects that reduce fire risks—as long as regulation and litigation don’t snuff them out.

The Dam Rent Is Too Low

Sara Sutherland

The city of San Francisco has benefited enormously from an outdated lease with Yosemite National Park over the use of Hetch Hetchy Reservoir. It’s time to update the dam agreement.

Snapshots

Examples of free market environmentalism in action.

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