A totalitarian state is built on control of private property. Rigid environmentalism is essential for the progressive state model because it allows government to control property and activities. It opens lots of activities up to taxation, fines, and new regulations. It is also necessary for progressives to control rural America.
Environmentalism will take the issues of the city and apply them to rural areas that oppose them. Few see the risks. Most recognize the need for balance, but too few recognize their true goal - absolute control.
Yes, you are all too correct. The greens already own the land and the water. The last battle is the air campaign, i.e. global warming. This blitz has not gone nearly as well as the other campaigns ...