Natural Resources Law
Natural resources law falls under the umbrella of the fairly new discipline of environmental law. This field seeks to protect the natural resources of a given area through the regulation of businesses that might pollute, dismantle, or otherwise irreparably harm elements of the environment such as forests or water supply. Natural resources law also seeks to protect wildlife, whether it is endangered or flourishing.EPA Regulations
Once a law is passed by state legislators or the U.S. Congress to protect the environment, either the state’s environmental watchdog or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) steps in. This government organization researches issues that are affected by the law; the agency then writes regulations that will strengthen the law. Finally, the EPA enforces the regulation through the following means:
- Civil Enforcement: Violators pay a penalty for breaking the law
- Cleanup Enforcement: The mandatory cleanup of waste laden areas that can adversely affect living conditions for people, animals, or plant life
- Criminal Enforcement: Sanctions are brought against serious violators, and may result in incarceration
Finding a Natural Resources Lawyer
A reliable attorney dedicated to Natural Resources Law will be up-to-date on new laws and state/EPA regulations, as well as the punishments associated with violations.
Quite a few colleges and law schools around the country are teaching Environmental and Natural Resources Law. These same schools are often home to advocacy centers, and may be able to provide information on attorneys in your area who are doing work in this field. You may also check the Internet for issues and solutions that are related to your interests or concerns.
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