Public Lands Access Should Unite Americans, Advocate Argues
As decisions impacting public lands are made, voters are urged to question candidates on their protection plans.
Experiencing wild, open, and natural spaces is an integral part of the American identity, transcending geography, generations, and political beliefs, according to an argument made by Mary Beth Laughton, CEO of REI Co-op. These spaces, from local trails to national parks, offer opportunities for connection, perspective, and community, especially at a time marked by increasing loneliness, division, and stress.
However, the natural landscapes that foster these connections are facing mounting pressure from decisions made by elected officials. As the midterm elections approach, voters are encouraged to inquire about candidates' stances on protecting public lands, a choice that will shape the legacy left for future generations.
Recent actions highlight these concerns. Bears Ears National Monument in Utah saw its protected area reduced from approximately 1.36 million acres to about 131,000 acres through a presidential proclamation. This action removed protections from over 90% of the landscape, which holds deep cultural and ancestral significance for Tribal Nations. Similar situations are occurring nationwide, such as the rollback of protections for Minnesota's Boundary Waters, which could allow mining in its headwaters. The Trump administration has also reportedly considered transferring a parcel of Yosemite National Park to a private developer, and there are concerns that pristine roadless backcountry areas could be opened to development and resource extraction.
While acknowledging that diverse interests such as recreation, conservation, grazing, timber, energy development, and local economies require consideration, the argument emphasizes the need for responsible stewardship that balances these interests. Public lands are presented not only as a conservation legacy but also as a significant economic driver, generating $1.3 trillion in economic output and supporting 5.2 million American jobs annually through outdoor recreation.
The connection to public lands runs deep, serving as common ground for Americans from various backgrounds. Conservationists argue that these shared spaces remind citizens of their common interests, which are grounded in the reality of preserving these accessible and healthy environments.
The long-term consequences of decisions made today will extend beyond current administrations. The argument stresses that once public lands are altered, fragmented, or developed, they cannot be restored to their original state.
Encouraging more people to experience these lands is seen as a key strategy for their protection, as personal connection often drives advocacy. The future of public lands hinges on a collective belief in their value and the election of leaders who share this conviction. As candidates seek votes, voters are urged to scrutinize their past choices, supported policies, and stated positions.
Ultimately, the choice rests with the public: to view public lands as just another political issue or to recognize their intrinsic value in promoting well-being, fostering unity, and connecting people to something larger than themselves. The call to action is to elect leaders in November who are committed to safeguarding these invaluable resources for generations to come.