In the United States, where federal agencies manage nearly a third of the land, proposed legislation such as the HEARD Act aims to reduce the fragmentation of federal holdings by selling 80% of designated land parcels over four years. This project explored the potential impacts of this legislation through an innovative combination of geospatial analysis and storytelling.

The GIS team from University of Arizona, aggregated geospatial data from federal sources, including BLM RMPs and cultivated land datasets. These data were processed to identify and analyse parcels suitable for disposal. To communicate findings, the team developed an Esri Story Maps application, “OUR LAND: The Sale of Federal Land, Accelerated,” which combines GIS-driven maps, statistical insights, and video journalism. This data-driven app fosters public dialogue on the implications of accelerated federal land sales, particularly their impact on real estate markets and land management practices.