US Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Major Expansion of Hunting Access
US Fish and Wildlife Service Plans to Allow Hunting on 95% of Its Land

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The US Fish and Wildlife Service plans to expand hunting and fishing opportunities on 95% of its lands, amounting to over 92 million acres across 32 states. This initiative aims to reduce regulatory barriers and has garnered support from hunting groups, while raising concerns among conservationists.
- 01The proposed changes will create or expand over 1,450 hunting and fishing opportunities at 111 stations.
- 02This initiative aligns with Secretary’s Order 3447 aimed at removing regulatory barriers to hunting and fishing.
- 03The National Wildlife Refuge System includes 573 refuges and attracts over 71 million visitors annually.
- 04Hunting and fishing contribute approximately $144 billion to the US economy each year.
- 05Public comments on the proposed rule will be accepted for 30 days after its publication in the Federal Register.
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The US Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has announced a significant proposal to expand hunting and fishing opportunities across its lands, marking what officials describe as the largest expansion in its history. The plan aims to open or broaden access to over 1,450 opportunities at 111 stations in 32 states, allowing hunting on 95% of the National Wildlife Refuge System, which encompasses over 92 million acres. This initiative is part of the Trump administration's efforts to enhance public land access and reduce regulatory burdens, as outlined in Secretary’s Order 3447. While hunting groups have welcomed the changes, conservation organizations have raised concerns regarding wildlife management and visitor safety. The National Wildlife Refuge System, dedicated to protecting fish and wildlife, attracts more than 71 million visitors annually and plays a crucial role in conservation. The FWS is also introducing hunting and fishing opportunities at 14 new refuges and three hatcheries. The public will have 30 days to comment on the proposal following its publication in the Federal Register.
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The expansion of hunting and fishing access may lead to increased recreational use of public lands, impacting local economies positively.
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