Find Out How Much Land the Government Owns in Every State - Simple Family Preparedness

It’s surprising how much government land ownership varies state-to-state. In certain areas, less than 1% of the terrain falls under federal management, while in others, the government claims more than half.

We looked at the Congressional Research Service’s report on federal land ownership, which has the most recently available data. We also looked federal government employment data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

A staggering 96% of federally managed land is overseen by just five agencies: the Bureau of Land Management, the Forest Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, and the Department of Defense.

Among these, the Bureau of Land Management owns the most – a massive 244.4 million acres, while the U.S. Forest Service is not far behind, managing 192.9 million acres. This federal land is predominantly located in the Western United States, with only about 10% situated east of the Mississippi River.

The National Park Service, although not the largest landholder, oversees areas deeply ingrained in the American identity, including 62 national parks and numerous historical sites, attracting over 330 million visitors each year. Despite the significant land holdings, the federal workforce constitutes a relatively small percentage of the overall employment in many of these states.

1. Nevada

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> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 80.1%
> Area of federal land in state: 56.3 million acres (2nd most)
> Agency owning most land: Bureau of Land Management
- How much land owned by main agency: 47.3 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.4% (13th lowest)

Nevada leads the nation with 80.1% of its land federally owned, primarily managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This extensive federal presence underscores the state’s unique status, from strategic military installations to iconic and secretive sites, all while supporting public land use and conservation efforts.

2. Utah

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 63.1%
> Area of federal land in state: 33.3 million acres (4th most)
> Agency owning most land: Bureau of Land Management
- How much land owned by main agency: 22.8 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.4% (13th highest)

Utah’s 63.1% federally owned land is managed largely by the Bureau of Land Management, fostering a landscape ripe for adventure and exploration. Iconic national parks further enhance the state’s natural allure, making it a prime destination for tourists and outdoor adventurers alike.

3. Idaho

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 61.9%
> Area of federal land in state: 32.8 million acres (5th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 20.4 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.7% (25th highest)

With 61.9% of its land federally managed, Idaho is a testament to the importance of federal stewardship in preserving natural landscapes, particularly through the Forest Service. This ensures the protection of vast wilderness areas and supports a variety of outdoor activities, reinforcing Idaho’s reputation as a haven for nature enthusiasts.

4. Alaska

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 60.9%
> Area of federal land in state: 222.7 million acres (the most)
> Agency owning most land: Fish and Wildlife Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 76.6 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 4.5% (3rd highest)

Alaska stands out with 60.9% of its land under federal control, reflecting its status as a vast and largely untamed frontier. The Fish and Wildlife Service and the Bureau of Land Management oversee large portions, ensuring the preservation of its unique ecosystems and supporting state and national interests in this critical region.

5. Oregon

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 52.3%
> Area of federal land in state: 32.2 million acres (6th most)
> Agency owning most land: Bureau of Land Management
- How much land owned by main agency: 15.7 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.5% (16th lowest)

Over half of Oregon’s landscape is federally owned, with the Bureau of Land Management and the Forest Service almost evenly splitting the stewardship. This management supports diverse ecosystems and recreational opportunities, emphasizing Oregon’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty for future generations.

6. Wyoming

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 46.7%
> Area of federal land in state: 29.1 million acres (7th most)
> Agency owning most land: Bureau of Land Management
- How much land owned by main agency: 17.5 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.6% (9th highest)

Wyoming’s 46.7% federally owned land underscores its role as a resource-rich state, with the Bureau of Land Management playing a pivotal role in managing these assets. The state’s vast public lands support both economic activities and recreational pursuits, highlighting the value of federal stewardship in balancing conservation with resource utilization.

7. California

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 45.4%
> Area of federal land in state: 45.5 million acres (3rd most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 20.8 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.4% (15th lowest)

Nearly half of California, 45.4%, falls under federal management, making it a state of diverse ecosystems and significant military bases. The Forest Service’s extensive reach, combined with the Department of Defense’s presence and iconic national parks, showcases California’s complex interplay between natural wonder, cultural heritage, and national security.

8. Arizona

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 38.6%
> Area of federal land in state: 28.1 million acres (8th most)
> Agency owning most land: Bureau of Land Management
- How much land owned by main agency: 12.1 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.9% (20th highest)

With 38.6% of its land federally owned, Arizona has seen changes in land management over the years. Despite reductions, the state’s vast deserts and unique landscapes remain under the careful watch of agencies like the Bureau of Land Management, ensuring the preservation of its natural heritage while supporting public access and enjoyment.

9. Colorado

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 36.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 24.1 million acres (11th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 14.5 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.9% (22nd highest)

Colorado’s federal lands make up 36.2% of the state, showcasing its iconic landscapes through the stewardship of the Forest Service, which manages sprawling national forests. The Bureau of Land Management’s significant footprint emphasizes Colorado’s balance between conservation and recreational use, solidifying its status as an outdoor paradise.

10. New Mexico

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 31.7%
> Area of federal land in state: 24.7 million acres (10th most)
> Agency owning most land: Bureau of Land Management
- How much land owned by main agency: 13.5 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 3.4% (5th highest)

In New Mexico, federal land encompasses 31.7% of the state, highlighting its vast desert landscapes and mineral-rich grounds managed primarily by the Bureau of Land Management. The presence of the White Sands Missile Range underscores the state’s strategic significance, marrying natural beauty with national defense initiatives.

11. Montana

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 29.0%
> Area of federal land in state: 27.1 million acres (9th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 17.2 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.8% (8th highest)

Montana’s 29% federal land ownership encompasses vast areas of forests and national parks, managed primarily by the Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management. This significant federal stewardship helps maintain Montana’s wilderness and natural beauty, supporting conservation and recreational activities.

12. Washington

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 28.6%
> Area of federal land in state: 12.2 million acres (12th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 9.3 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.2% (18th highest)

In Washington, 28.6% of the land is federally managed, highlighting the state’s vast natural forests and parks, including the Cascade Mountains and the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest. This extensive federal presence reflects the state’s dedication to preserving its spectacular landscapes.

13. Hawaii

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 20.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 829,830 acres (19th least)
> Agency owning most land: National Park Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 358,160 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 5.2% (2nd highest)

Hawaii, with 20.2% of its land federally owned, sees the largest share managed by the National Park Service, including significant cultural and natural landmarks. The absence of the Forest Service and the substantial military footprint underscore Hawaii’s unique federal land management profile.

14. New Hampshire

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 14.0%
> Area of federal land in state: 805,472 acres (18th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 753,921 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.2% (6th lowest)

Federal ownership in New Hampshire reaches 14%, dominated by the White Mountain National Forest. This significant federal presence underscores the state’s natural beauty and recreational appeal, fostering a strong connection with the outdoors.

15. Florida

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 12.9%
> Area of federal land in state: 4.5 million acres (13th most)
> Agency owning most land: National Park Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 2.5 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.6% (20th lowest)

Florida stands out with 12.9% of its land under federal management, led by the National Park Service managing the Everglades National Park. This extensive federal presence supports one of the world’s largest wetlands, emphasizing the importance of ecological conservation and diversity.

16. Michigan

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 10.0%
> Area of federal land in state: 3.6 million acres (14th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 2.9 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.2% (8th lowest)

With 10% of its land federally managed, Michigan’s Huron-Manistee National Forest represents a significant portion of this, showcasing the state’s commitment to protecting its natural heritage and supporting biodiversity.

17. Arkansas

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 9.4%
> Area of federal land in state: 3.2 million acres (17th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 2.6 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.6% (18th lowest)

Arkansas, where 9.4% of the land is federally owned, boasts extensive areas managed by the Forest Service, including the Ouachita and Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. These lands highlight Arkansas’s commitment to preserving its natural resources and providing recreational opportunities.

18. Virginia

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 9.3%
> Area of federal land in state: 2.4 million acres (20th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.7 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 4.5% (4th highest)

Virginia’s federal lands make up 9.3% of the state, including vast areas managed by the Forest Service and the National Park Service. The presence of significant military installations further illustrates the state’s crucial role in both conservation and national security.

19. Vermont

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 7.8%
> Area of federal land in state: 465,888 acres (14th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 10,654 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.2% (14th highest)

Vermont, also with 7.8% federal land ownership, largely consists of the Green Mountain National Forest, managed by the Forest Service. This dedication to conserving the state’s verdant landscapes ensures that Vermont remains a prime destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

20. North Carolina

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 7.8%
> Area of federal land in state: 2.4 million acres (19th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.3 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.6% (24th lowest)

In North Carolina, 7.8% of the land is federally owned, with the Forest Service managing significant areas such as the Pisgah National Forest. This diverse management supports a variety of ecosystems and recreational areas, underscoring the state’s commitment to natural preservation and outdoor activities.

21. West Virginia

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 7.4%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.1 million acres (23rd least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.0 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 3.3%

West Virginia stands out with 7.4% of its land under federal management, primarily the Monongahela National Forest, embodying the state’s rich forested landscapes. The National Park Service also plays a significant role, managing areas like the Flight 93 National Memorial, highlighting the state’s dedication to preserving both its natural beauty and historical significance.

22. Minnesota

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 6.8%
> Area of federal land in state: 3.5 million acres (15th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 2.8 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.1%

Minnesota, with 6.8% of its land federally owned, focuses on the Forest Service’s management, especially in areas bordering Canada and Lake Superior. The state’s federal lands, including significant portions managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, underscore the importance of preserving natural habitats and waterways, critical for wildlife and recreational activities.

23. South Dakota

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 5.4%
> Area of federal land in state: 2.6 million acres (18th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 2.0 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.6%

In South Dakota, 5.4% of the state is federal land, with the Forest Service managing a majority, including the Black Hills National Forest and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. This highlights the state’s rich historical and natural significance, offering diverse landscapes for conservation and recreation.

24. Wisconsin

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 5.3%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.9 million acres (22nd most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.5 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.0%

Wisconsin’s 5.3% federal land ownership, primarily managed by the Forest Service, reflects a dedication to the conservation of natural resources, despite a notable decline in federal land area over recent decades. The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest stands as a key component of the state’s natural heritage.

25. Georgia

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 5.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.9 million acres (21st most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 867,580 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.2%

Georgia, where 5.2% of the land is federally managed, sees a significant portion under the Forest Service, including the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests. The state’s strategic importance is further highlighted by the presence of major Army bases, integrating national defense with natural conservation.

26. Mississippi

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 5.1%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.6 million acres (25th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.2 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.2%

With 5.1% of its land federally owned, Mississippi emphasizes forest management, with over three-quarters managed by the Forest Service. This includes multiple national forests, showcasing the state’s dedication to preserving its lush, forested landscapes for public enjoyment and ecological balance.

27. Tennessee

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 4.8%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.3 million acres (24th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency:`722,057 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.6%

Tennessee holds around 1.3 million acres of federal land, about 4.8% of the state, primarily overseen by the Forest Service, including the vast Cherokee National Forest. The state also prides itself on housing part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a testament to its natural beauty and a major draw for tourists seeking outdoor adventures.

28. Louisiana

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 4.7%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.4 million acres (25th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency:` 608,546 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees 1.6%

Louisiana’s federal lands span approximately 1.4 million acres, with 4.7% of the state under federal management. The Kisatchie National Forest, managed by the Forest Service, offers expansive recreational opportunities, highlighting the state’s rich natural resources. The Fish and Wildlife Service and the Department of Defense also play significant roles, balancing conservation efforts with the necessities of national security.

29. South Carolina

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 4.5%
> Area of federal land in state: 875,316 acres (20th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 634,594 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.6%

South Carolina boasts 875,316 acres of federal land, constituting 4.5% of the state’s territory, largely dominated by the Forest Service. Notably, the Sumter and Francis Marion National Forests represent significant portions of this, showcasing the state’s commitment to preserving its diverse ecosystems. Additionally, the presence of key military installations underscores the strategic importance of federal land in supporting national defense efforts.

30. Kentucky

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 4.3%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.1 million acres (22nd least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 818,268 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.8%

Kentucky’s 4.3% federal land encompasses vast Forest Service territories like the Daniel Boone National Forest, emphasizing the state’s natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Fort Knox adds a layer of historical and national significance, housing the U.S. Bullion Depository and illustrating the multifaceted role of federal lands in the state.

31. North Dakota

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 3.9%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.7 million acres (23rd most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.1 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.1%

In North Dakota, 3.9% of the state is under federal management, mostly by the Forest Service, including the Little Missouri National Grassland, the country’s largest. This highlights the state’s commitment to preserving its unique prairie ecosystems and supporting biodiversity.

32. Missouri

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 3.8%
> Area of federal land in state: 1.7 million acres (24th most)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.5 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.9%

Missouri’s 3.8% federally owned lands are largely managed by the Forest Service, with the expansive Mark Twain National Forest dominating. The presence of military installations like Fort Leonard Wood further adds to the state’s diverse use of its federal lands, from conservation to defense.

33. New Jersey

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 3.6%
> Area of federal land in state: 171,956 acres (6th least)
> Agency owning most land: Fish and Wildlife Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 73,785 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.2%

New Jersey, with 3.6% federal land ownership, sees the Fish and Wildlife Service managing significant areas like the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. The state also hosts substantial Department of Defense lands, including the Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, showcasing a commitment to both natural preservation and military needs.

34. Maryland

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 3.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 205,362 acres (7th least)
> Agency owning most land: Department of Defense
- How much land owned by main agency: 113,487 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 5.3%

Maryland, where 3.2% of the land is federally owned, stands out with the Department of Defense managing the most land, including major bases like Fort George G. Meade. Proximity to the capital makes it a strategic location for defense, highlighting the state’s role in national security and military readiness.

35. Alabama

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 2.7%
> Area of federal land in state: 880,188 acres (21st least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 670,889 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.6%

Alabama’s federal lands make up 2.7% of the state, with a significant portion managed by the Forest Service, including Talladega and William B. Bankhead National Forests. This emphasizes Alabama’s lush forested landscapes, supporting biodiversity and offering recreational opportunities amidst its vast woodlands.

36. Delaware

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 2.4%
> Area of federal land in state: 29,918 acres (3rd least)
> Agency owning most land: Fish and Wildlife Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 25,543 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.2%

In Delaware, federal lands account for 2.4% of the state, with over 85% managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service, including Bombay Hook and Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuges. The Department of Defense, utilizing lands for Dover Air Force Base, demonstrates the balance between natural conservation and national security in this small yet significant state.

37. Pennsylvania

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 2.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 622,160 acres (16th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 513,891 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.6%

Pennsylvania’s federal lands total 622,160 acres, about 2.2% of the state, predominantly managed by the Forest Service, with Allegheny National Forest being a significant portion. The National Park Service, overseeing lands like the Flight 93 National Memorial, marks a historical and natural preservation effort, reflecting the state’s dedication to conserving its rich history and natural beauty.

38. Texas

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.9%
> Area of federal land in state: 3.2 million acres (16th most)
> Agency owning most land: National Park Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 1.2 million acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.6%

Texas, with 1.9% of its land federally owned, stands out for its national parks, including Guadalupe Mountains and Big Bend, managed by the National Park Service. This agency oversees 1.2 million acres, highlighting the state’s natural wonders and recreational spaces. The Department of Defense’s presence, through major bases like Fort Hood and Fort Bliss, adds to the state’s federal land profile, blending natural beauty with national security.

39. Indiana

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.7%
> Area of federal land in state: 384,726 acres (12th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 204,318 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.2%

Indiana’s federal land holdings total nearly 385,000 acres, or 1.7% of the state, with the Forest Service managing the Hoosier National Forest. This area represents a significant portion of Indiana’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage. The Department of Defense also maintains a substantial presence through key military installations, contributing to the state’s strategic and environmental landscape.

40. Oklahoma

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.5%
> Area of federal land in state: 683,289 acres (17th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 399,578 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.9%

In Oklahoma, 1.5% of the state, or 683,289 acres, is federally owned. The Forest Service’s management includes the Black Kettle National Grassland and sections of the Ouachita National Forest, marking the state’s diverse ecological landscapes. The Department of Defense, with significant installations such as Fort Sill and Tinker Air Force Base, underscores the strategic importance of federal land in Oklahoma.

41. Maine

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.5%
> Area of federal land in state: 301,481 acres (10th least)
> Agency owning most land: National Park Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 156,205 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.5%

Federal management in Maine accounts for 1.5% of its land, totaling 301,481 acres, with the National Park Service owning the majority. Acadia National Park, a crown jewel along Maine’s coastline, draws 3.5 million visitors yearly to its 158 miles of hiking trails. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services and the Forest Service also contribute to Maine’s rich tapestry of federally managed lands, emphasizing conservation and public enjoyment.

42. Ohio

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 305,502 acres (11th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 244,440 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.4%

Ohio’s federal lands, making up 1.2% of the state at 305,502 acres, are predominantly managed by the Forest Service, which oversees 80% of this area. The Wayne National Forest encompasses large tracts in the state’s southeastern regions, illustrating Ohio’s commitment to preserving its lush, forested landscapes. The Department of Defense also plays a key role, managing strategic locations such as the National Guard Ravenna Training and Log Site and the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base.

43. Massachusetts

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 62,680 acres (4th least)
> Agency owning most land: National Park Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 33,336 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.2%

Massachusetts reflects a modest federal footprint, owning 1.2% or 62,680 acres of the land. Here, the National Park Service takes the lead, managing over half of the federal terrain, including historical sites and the Cape Cod National Seashore. Despite lacking national parks, Massachusetts is rich in federally managed historical landmarks and portions of the Appalachian Trail, underscoring the state’s historical significance and natural beauty.

44. Illinois

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.2%
> Area of federal land in state: 423,782 acres (13th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 304,538 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.3%

In Illinois, the federal government’s land comprises 1.2% of the state’s terrain, totaling around 423,782 acres. The lion’s share, over 300,000 acres, is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, with the Shawnee National Forest as a standout, covering a substantial portion of southern Illinois. Following the Forest Service, the Fish and Wildlife Service oversees 90,000 acres, while the Department of Defense has a significant presence with nearly 30,000 acres under its belt.

45. Nebraska

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 1.1%
> Area of federal land in state: 546,852 acres (15th least)
> Agency owning most land: Forest Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 351,205 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.7%

Nebraska’s federal lands, about 1.1% of its area, are largely managed by the U.S. Forest Service, including notable areas like the Oglala National Grassland and the Nebraska National Forest. The Fish and Wildlife Service and the Department of Defense also have significant holdings.

46. New York

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 0.8%
> Area of federal land in state: 230,992 acres (8th least)
> Agency owning most land: Department of Defense
- How much land owned by main agency: 151,233 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.2%

In New York, federal lands comprise 0.8% of the state, with the Department of Defense controlling the largest portion, thanks to the significant military installation at Fort Drum, home to the 10th Mountain Division.

47. Rhode Island

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 0.7%
> Area of federal land in state: 4,513 acres (the least)
> Agency owning most land: Fish and Wildlife Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 2,415 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 2.2%

Rhode Island boasts the least federal land, totaling 4,513 acres or 0.7% of the state, predominantly managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. Despite its size, the state maintains a robust federal land presence relative to its area.

48. Kansas

>Percentage of land owned by federal government: 0.5%
> Area of federal land in state: 253,919 acres (9th least)
> Agency owning most land: Fish and Wildlife Service: Department of Defense
- How much land owned by main agency: 115,326 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.8%

Kansas sees 0.5% of its land, or 253,919 acres, under federal management, primarily by the Department of Defense, including significant installations like Fort Riley and the Smoky Hill Air National Guard Range.

49. Iowa

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 0.3%
> Area of federal land in state: 97,509 acres (5th least)
> Agency owning most land: Fish and Wildlife Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 73,427 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.1%

Iowa’s federal lands account for 0.3% of its territory, roughly 97,509 acres, with the Department of Defense playing a significant role through facilities like Camp Dodge and the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is the predominant land manager here, emphasizing the state’s natural refuges.

50. Connecticut

> Percentage of land owned by federal government: 0.3%
> Area of federal land in state: 9,110 acres (2nd least)
> Agency owning most land: National Park Service
- How much land owned by main agency: 5,846 acres
> Percentage of state workforce who are federal employees: 1.1%

In Connecticut, federal lands make up a mere 0.3% of the state’s area, totaling around 9,110 acres. The National Park Service leads with 5,846 acres, including sections of the Appalachian and New England Scenic Trails. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service follows, managing over 1,754 acres across the state.

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Best Regions in the U.S. to Escape to When Society Collapses

Alaska skyline — Image Credit: Shutterstock.

Choosing a refuge in the event of societal collapse involves weighing the pros and cons of each location against your personal preparedness goals and abilities. Whether you’re drawn to the solitude of the desert or the protective heights of the mountains, the key is finding a place that offers safety and the opportunity for growth and renewal.

Katy Willis is a writer, lifelong homesteader, and master herbalist, master gardener, and canine nutritionist. Katy is a preparedness expert and modern homesteader practicing everyday preparedness, sustainability, and a holistic lifestyle.

She knows how important it is to be prepared for whatever life throws at you, because you just never know what’s coming. And preparedness helps you give your family the best chance to thrive in any situation.

Katy is passionate about living naturally, growing food, keeping livestock, foraging, and making and using herbal remedies. Katy is an experienced herbalist and a member of the CMA (Complementary Medical Association).

Her preparedness skills go beyond just being “ready”, she’s ready to survive the initial disaster, and thrive afterward, too. She grows 100% organic food on roughly 15 acres and raises goats, chickens, and ducks. She also lovingly tends her orchard, where she grows many different fruit trees. And, because she likes to know exactly what she’s feeding her family, she’s a seasoned from-scratch cook and gluten-free baker.

Katy teaches foraging and environmental education classes, too, including self-sufficient living, modern homesteading, seed saving, and organic vegetable gardening.

Katy helps others learn forgotten skills, including basic survival skills and self-reliance.

She’s been published on sites such as MSN, Angi, Home Advisor, Family Handyman, Wealth of Geeks, Readers Digest, and more.