More than 92 million acres or greater than 95 percent of National Wildlife Refuge System lands will be accessible this fall for hunting. According to an August 13 announcement by the Department of the Interior, that marks the largest expansion of hunting and sport fishing opportunities in the history of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
“America’s hunters and anglers now have something significant to look forward to in the fall as we plan to open and expand hunting and fishing opportunities nationwide. We are also promoting good government by reducing the regulatory burden and working with states to facilitate these outdoor activities,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “Under President Trump’s leadership, we are committed to building on and increasing access for hunters and anglers on our public lands and waters.”
In total, the final rule, which will publish in the Federal Register in time for hunting season, will deliver 1,488 new hunting and sport fishing opportunities across 32 states. It will increase access at 111 field stations, including 107 national wildlife refuges and four national fish hatcheries. It also includes first-ever hunting or sport fishing opportunities at 14 refuges and three hatcheries, reflecting continued progress toward maximizing access where compatible with conservation goals.
“This expansion will provide incredible opportunities for sportsmen and women and their families across the country to pass on a fishing and hunting heritage to future generations and connect with wildlife. We are committed to responsibly managing these areas for the benefit of future generations while fulfilling our conservation mission,” said USFWS Director Brian Nesvik.
Hunters and anglers play a central role in conservation. According to USFWS, more than 39.9 million Americans fish and 14.4 million hunt, contributing more than $144 billion annually to the U.S. economy. These activities support jobs, fund conservation efforts and sustain outdoor traditions that connect communities to the land and to each other.
Click here to view the Department of the Interior news release in its entirety.
About Hunt 2 Conserve
Hunt 2 Conserve is a 501(c)4 nonprofit organization affiliated with the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Its mission is to advance a legacy of hunting and conservation by educating, activating and developing stewards and defenders of these fundamentally American ideals. For more information, go to hunt2conserve.org.
(Photo credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)
