News

The US Department of the Interior (DOI) has announced plans to significantly expand public hunting and fishing opportunities across federal lands managed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and National Park Service (NPS).

According to the department, the proposal would introduce more than 1,450 new hunting and fishing opportunities across 111 USFWS stations in 32 states, including 107 National Wildlife Refuges.

The expansion would also make more than 92 million acres, representing approximately 95 per cent of National Wildlife Refuge System lands, available for hunting. The proposal includes first-time hunting or sport fishing access at 14 refuges and three hatcheries.

The announcement forms part of the Trump administration’s wider commitment to increase public access to outdoor recreation and hunting opportunities on federally managed land.

US Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum said the initiative was aimed at supporting outdoor traditions while improving access for hunters and anglers across the United States.

The DOI stated that the proposed changes are intended to support conservation, wildlife management and recreational access, while also increasing opportunities for sportsmen and women on public land.

The proposal is expected to be subject to a public comment process before any final measures are implemented.

Hunting access on federal lands remains an important issue within the US firearms and outdoor industries, particularly as public land availability varies significantly between states and regions.

Industry groups have also highlighted the long-standing role of hunting-related funding in wildlife conservation efforts through excise taxes linked to firearms, ammunition and related equipment sales.