"'Ownership' of a part of this planet's surface by a short lived primate is
a ridiculous concept on the face of it."

Perhaps, but ownership is precisely what gives us the incentive to use the
land sustainably. Imagine how we'd treat it if it were just common ground.
(Come to think of it, we'd treat it like they do in countries where that is
the case: slash and burn, and move on.)

"I put far more faith in those small or large family farmers who have a
long-term connection with "their" land, and who intend to pass
well-maintained land on to their grandchildren.  They are in general the
best land stewards."

Exactly.

Eugene Makovec
Missouri USA

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