jun 4, 1897 - Signs an Appropriations Act (30 Stat 11) including language affirming presidential power to create forest reserves, and continuing existing reserves. The law stipulates that land may not be reserved that is more valuable for its minerals than its timber. Reserves are to protect forests and watersheds and to "furnish a continuous supply of timber for the use and necessities of citizens of the United States."
Added to timeline:
Date:
jun 4, 1897
Now
~ 129 years ago