Final answer:
The federal government aims to conserve and sustainably use natural resources for both current and future generations, balancing conservation with economic viability, and enhancing quality of life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major goal of the federal government when managing land resources is to balance the conservation of natural resources with their sustainable use, so as to meet the needs of both present and future generations. This involves regulating public access to common goods like natural resources, which are in limited supply and can't be simply multiplied as demand increases. The U.S. Forest Service, for instance, aims to 'sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands' in a way that benefits the public. The government often implements environmental laws with flexibility and incentives, rather than a strict command-and-control approach, to encourage private landowners to protect endangered species and maintain habitats. Moreover, the federal government seeks to make the most efficient use of nonrenewable resources, sustain the economic viability of farm operations, and enhance the quality of life for society as a whole.