Book excerpt: The management of rights-of-way by electric and telephone utilities, highway departments, gas pipeline companies, and railroads around the world is guided and constrained by policies and regulations to protect the environment. Companies that manage rights-of-way are required to comply with these regulations, and are seeking the most cost-effective management practices that, at the same time, demonstrate stewardship of the environment. Protection of biodiversity and sustainable development are especially important as national goals in many countries, and rights-of-way managers are seeking practical ways to include public participation in their operations. * Addresses environmental issues in rights-of-way planning and management * Provides a forum for information exchange among various agencies, industries, environmental consultants, and academic organizations * Presents peer-reviewed papers to help achieve a better understanding of current environmental issues involved in rights-of-way management