Access to public and natural spaces is part of American identity, and this sentiment has grown among the people. Our shared connection to nature transcends geography, generations, and political beliefs. From a local trail to national parks and open deserts, local nature provides a place for gathering, finding perspective, and experiencing something greater than ourselves.
The Importance of Protecting Public Lands
At a time when feelings of loneliness, division, and stress are on the rise, being outdoors can help improve physical and mental health, strengthen community, and re-establish connections. For millions of Americans, public lands provide this opportunity. However, the places that maintain this connection are under increasing pressure due to decisions made by elected officials. For this reason, as we approach this year's midterm elections, voters should confront every candidate with a simple question: How will you protect our public lands?
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The Impact of Current Decisions
For example, the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah has seen a reduction of about 90 percent of its boundaries due to a presidential proclamation. This site is a living cultural landscape and an important ancestral land for tribes. Similar decisions are occurring across the country, including reductions in protections at Border Waters and the potential transfer of part of Yosemite National Park to a private developer. These decisions will have long-term consequences.
Discussion about the management of public lands is essential. Recreation, conservation, ranching, timber, energy development, and local economies all need to be considered. Responsible stewardship requires a balance between these interests and the protection of places that generations of Americans have fought to preserve.
These lands are not only a heritage to be protected but also an economic engine. Outdoor recreation generates $1.3 trillion in economic output and supports 5.2 million jobs in the U.S. Communities and businesses depend on forests, rivers, trails, parks, and open spaces that draw people outdoors.
Today's decisions will have a lasting impact. If public lands are permanently altered or developed, there will be no turning back.
Ultimately, one of the best ways to protect these places is to foster greater connections between people and them. People fight for what they know. The future of our public lands depends on whether Americans still believe in protecting them or not.
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