The Public Trust Doctrine is a legal principle that asserts certain natural resources, like water, shorelines, and wildlife, are preserved for public use and cannot be owned privately. This doctrine ensures that these resources are accessible to everyone and are managed sustainably for future generations. Governments have a responsibility to protect these resources and maintain them for public enjoyment and benefit. The doctrine is rooted in the idea that certain assets are too important to be controlled solely by individuals or corporations, emphasizing the need for collective stewardship of the environment.