As a result of the continuing growth of the population and development of the economy of the state of North Dakota, it is necessary and desirable that natural areas be set aside and preserved for the benefit of present and future generations before such areas are destroyed. Such areas are irreplaceable as laboratories for scientific research; as reservoirs of natural materials not all of the uses of which are now known; as habitats for plant and animal species and biotic communities, the diversity of which enriches the meaning and enjoyment of human life; as living museums where people may observe natural biotic and environmental systems of the earth and the interdependence of all forms of life; as examples of our natural heritage; and as reminders of the vital dependence of the health of the human community upon the health of the natural communities of which human health is an inseparable part. It is essential to the people of the state of North Dakota that they retain the opportunities to maintain close contact with such living communities and environmental systems of the earth and to benefit from the scientific, aesthetic, cultural, and spiritual values they possess. It is therefore the public policy of the state of North Dakota that such areas be acquired and preserved by the state and that other agencies, organizations, and individuals, both public and private, be encouraged to set aside such areas for the common benefit of the people of present and future generations.