Outdoor recreation has emerged as a vital economic force across many western states, contributing billions to local economies and enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. However, as more people flock to public lands in the region, the increasing strain on resources and infrastructure has left many areas in need of better management and maintenance.
Recognizing the urgency of this challenge, 22 governors from the Western Governors’ Association (WGA) have expressed bipartisan support for two key pieces of legislation aimed at bolstering outdoor recreation and public land management: America’s Outdoor Recreation Act of 2023 and the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act according to an article by Sierra Sun.
In a letter addressed to Senate leadership on September 3, the governors stressed the importance of these bills in sustaining the long-term health of public lands.
Signed by WGA Chair, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, and Vice Chair, Utah Governor Spencer Cox, the letter underscored the need for strategic support to “manage increasing levels of recreation while maintaining these resources for the enjoyment of all, and for future generations.
Key elements of the legislation include efforts to strengthen the land management workforce. The governors highlighted the importance of federal investment in building more housing for employees, hiring veterans, and promoting public-private partnerships to improve visitor services and maintain critical infrastructure on public lands.
This approach is not only essential for preserving these natural spaces but also for ensuring the safety and positive experiences of the millions who visit every year.
The letter also endorsed provisions within the bills designed to tackle pressing challenges facing outdoor recreation. These include using real-time data sharing to reduce visitor overcrowding, streamlining the permitting process for special uses, implementing stricter measures to prevent water contamination by decontaminating vessels, and encouraging cross-boundary management projects to better coordinate efforts across state and federal lands.
This bipartisan effort sends a strong message about the need for collaboration between federal and state governments to protect and enhance outdoor recreation spaces.
It also acknowledges the shared responsibility in maintaining the delicate balance between recreation and conservation, ensuring these treasured public lands remain accessible and well-managed amid increasing visitation.