Millions of Americans are spending more time exploring the waters we fish, the national parks we enjoy and wild places near and far. The benefits of these activities are numerous and they breathe life into the many local economies that depend on booming outdoor recreation — this year more so than ever.
At the same time, many of these same public lands have long been important to America’s energy portfolio. We believe that communities thrive when energy development is responsibly done, and balanced with the need for healthy lands, thriving fish and wildlife populations, and quality outdoor recreation experiences.
Unfortunately, outdated policies prioritize oil and gas development over other public land uses. Spurred by antiquated federal leasing policies — some of which are over a century old — recent energy development proposals threaten the landscapes Americans from all walks of life cherish.
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