Question

what helps prevent the tragedy of the commons?
regulating public lands and waters to prevent overuse
eliminating all land ownership by private citizens
giving everyone free reign of public lands
letting individuals take as much resources as they want

Explanation:

The Tragedy of the Commons occurs when shared resources are overexploited due to unregulated self-interest. Regulation to limit overuse addresses this core issue. Eliminating private ownership, allowing free rein, or unlimited resource extraction would either remove incentives for sustainable use or worsen overexploitation.

Answer:

regulating public lands and waters to prevent overuse