Trump Gives New Opportunities Ahead for Public Lands and Outdoor Recreation
Executive Order Highlights the Importance of Our National Parks, Public Lands, and Access for All
By Del Albright
Sustainable Motorized Recreation Advocate
delalbright.com
Something is shifting in Washington—and for once, it’s worth a closer look.
In a move that caught the attention of land use advocates, off-roaders, hunters, hikers, and conservationists alike, a recent Executive Order was signed to “prioritize conserving our great American National Parks and Outdoor Recreation Areas.” While political winds may blow hot and cold, this directive sends a clear signal: our public lands matter, and so do the people who use them responsibly.
As someone who’s spent decades advocating for balanced, sustainable access to public lands, I see this as more than just symbolic. It’s a possible step forward in recognizing that conservation and recreation can coexist, and that motorized access, when managed well, is part of the solution—not the problem.
️ Key Takeaways for Public Land Advocates
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Public Lands in the Spotlight: National Parks, Forests, and outdoor recreation areas are being recognized as a federal priority for conservation and responsible use.
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Outdoor Recreation Economy Matters: The Executive Order highlights the role of hiking, hunting, fishing, camping, and OHV use in supporting rural economies and millions of American jobs.
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Infrastructure Upgrades Encouraged: It calls for improvements to trail systems, campgrounds, restrooms, and roads—helping make our lands safer and more accessible.
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Access + Stewardship: Emphasizes balancing conservation goals with the need for continued public access to outdoor spaces.
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Coordination Across Agencies: Federal land managers are directed to work together—and with local communities—to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities.
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Multiple-Use Mandate Reinforced: The EO supports the long-standing principle that public lands serve many roles, from wildlife habitat to motorized recreation, grazing, and more.
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Collaboration Welcomed: There’s language about working with stakeholders—including tribes, counties, and recreation groups—to get things right on the ground.
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Future Generations in Mind: It aims to protect the legacy of our public lands for the next wave of outdoor stewards, trail riders, and families seeking adventure.
What This Means for Us
Whether you ride a Jeep into the backcountry, rock crawl, hit the dunes, overland in an SUV, fly-fish your way across alpine lakes, or photograph wildflowers from the trail, this Executive Order hints at a renewed commitment to keeping the gates open—and the experiences rich. But as always, the devil is in the details. This is a time for us to stay engaged, speak up, and keep promoting sustainable, responsible use of our outdoor treasures.
Together, let’s ensure this isn’t just a headline—but a real win for the lands we love. We must stay in the game and be part of the solution. JOIN those groups that make sense to you and fight for the causes you believe in.
Let me know your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out my Leadership & Landuse Page for tips, tools, and guides.