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This map, entitle of the Forest Reserves and National Parks in the Western United States was issued by the United States Geological Survey. It provides a detailed visualization of federal conservation efforts at the close of the 19th century, precisely corrected to June 30, 1899.
The map encompasses the western United States, extending from the Pacific Ocean to the western Great Plains and from the Canadian border to northern Mexico. The highlighted green areas represent designated Forest Reserves, while cross-hatched green areas denote National Parks. The map reflects the early stages of American environmental conservation, emphasizing areas set aside to protect watersheds, timber resources, and scenic landscapes from over-exploitation.
A numbered list at the bottom identifies 36 specific forest reserves, including prominent names such as Olympic, Washington, Flathead, Black Hills, Sierra, Yellowstone, and Grand Canyon. Early National Parks such as Yellowstone (established 1872) are also indicated. Many of these reserves would later evolve into the backbone of the U.S. National Forest system.
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