In which decade did the federal government start disposing of federal acres?

The federal government commenced the disposal of federal lands in the 1950s, primarily through legislation aimed at transferring surplus lands to states and individuals. This was part of a broader movement in the post-World War II era to encourage development, support economic expansion, and provide opportunities for public and private land use. This era marked a shift from previous policies that often maintained large tracts of land under federal control.

The 1940s focused more on wartime efforts and sustaining federal ownership for military-related purposes. The 1960s saw an expansion of conservation and environmental initiatives rather than large-scale land disposal. The 1970s would later be characterized by increased regulations and a conservation emphasis set by the environmental movement, which contrasted with the disposal trends of the previous decade. Understanding the federal government's land disposal policy is crucial as it influences land management, economic development, and resource allocation within the context of U.S. history.