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A Win for Public Lands, Thanks to You
You helped defeat a series of troubling public land sale proposals— proving the power of a united hunting, fishing, and conservation community.
Thanks to your engagement and advocacy, a series of troubling proposals in the budget reconciliation package—ones that would have mandated millions of acres of public land sales across the West—have been defeated. This outcome is a direct result of the overwhelming support from hunters, anglers, conservationists, and public land advocates like you—and we’re truly grateful.
At TRCP, we’ve long believed that public lands are a defining part of our national identity and outdoor heritage. When the proposed land sale surfaced, the response from the sporting community and beyond was swift and clear: we must stand for our public lands now and for future generations. And for me, that belief is deeply personal.
Growing up in Nebraska, many of my most formative experiences happened outdoors—fishing rivers and ponds, chasing pheasants through tall grass, and discovering new places through the Boy Scouts, often on public lands. Those early adventures sparked my passion for the outdoors, and as I ventured farther afield, the value of public land for hunting, fishing, and recreation became even clearer. From my time in Scouts to the public lands I still explore today in pursuit of fish, game, and solitude, that connection has not only grown, but it has also shaped my outdoor life and solidified a lifelong commitment to safeguarding the places that made it possible.
Public lands gave me those opportunities, and today, I feel a deep responsibility to ensure future generations can create memories of their own in these wild, shared spaces. They’re not just places we visit—they’re where traditions begin, values are passed down, and connections to nature are forged. From Saturday mornings in the field to fishing with family to the thrill of discovering new places, these moments are more than pastimes—they are the threads that connect us across generations, and they deserve our protection.
We were proud to stand with our partners – 44 leading hunting, fishing, and conservation organizations – and more than 64 respected hunting and fishing brands—including Orvis, SITKA Gear, and Vortex Optics—and a diverse network of grassroots advocates who voiced their concerns. Influential figures like Joe Rogan, Steven Rinella, Randy Newberg, and Cameron Hanes helped amplify the message, underscoring just how much these lands mean to Americans from all walks of life.
We’re also deeply appreciative of the bipartisan group of public land champions in Congress who listened and acted. In the House, we thank Representatives Ryan Zinke (R-Mont.), Mike Simpson (R-Idaho), Troy Downing (R-Mont.), Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), Dan Newhouse (R-Wash.), Cliff Bentz (R-Ore.), David Valadao (R-Calif.), Jeff Hurd (R-Colo.) Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), and Susie Lee (D-Nev.), and many others who worked tirelessly to defeat this proposal.
In the Senate, we’re grateful for the leadership and thoughtful opposition expressed by Senators Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho). And we extend thanks to Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) for playing a pivotal role in elevating this issue, alongside Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.).
This outcome reflects what’s possible when public voices are heard, and lawmakers work together to find common ground. It’s a reminder that, while our public lands may occasionally face challenges, they continue to unite Americans across geography, ideology, and generation. When we unite, we win.
This is a moment worth celebrating, but it’s also a reminder that our public lands are never guaranteed. We must stay engaged and united to ensure these places are safeguarded and well managed for the next generation of hunters, anglers, and adventurers.
Thank you for standing with us and with our public lands.
The TRCP is your resource for all things conservation. In our weekly Roosevelt Report, you’ll receive the latest news on emerging habitat threats, legislation and proposals on the move, public land access solutions we’re spearheading, and opportunities for hunters and anglers to take action.
Water for Deer, Pronghorn, Chukar, and a Whole Lot More
Nevada Bighorns Unlimited, NV Energy, Nevada Department of Wildlife staff, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and conservation-minded volunteers construct a water guzzler for desert wildlife
This past May, employees of NV Energy joined staff from the Nevada Department of Wildlife, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, and other conservation-minded volunteers to construct a new guzzler in Churchill County for mule deer, pronghorn, chukar, desert bighorns, and other wildlife.
Water is the primary limiting factor for wildlife in much of Nevada, and guzzlers have become a critical habitat improvement in arid climates across the West. Guzzlers are human-made rain or snow collection systems that store water in a reservoir for wildlife to drink during drought. Many have been funded and built in the same way as this Churchill County project – through volunteers and donations.
“I am very grateful that NV Energy partnered with the Nevada Bighorns Unlimited, Nevada Department of Wildlife, and the TRCP allowing us this opportunity to contribute to the sustainability of Nevada’s wildlife,” said Tony Gildone, NV Energy director of electric delivery operations, Northeast Region.
The NV Energy Foundation, as part of a grant awarded to TRCP for conservation work in Nevada, funded a portion of the cost of the event, and several NV Energy employees and their families participated in the volunteer day.
“My son is already talking about helping Nevada Bighorns Unlimited with the next build,” said Jason Tarr NV Energy business systems analyst. “He really enjoyed that experience.”
The day of the guzzler build saw an incredible turnout of nearly 200 volunteers. After a welcome and a safety talk from the Nevada Bighorns Unlimited board, everyone headed out to the project. Thanks to the Nevada Department of Wildlife crews who were out days prior clearing roads and preparing the site with tanks totaling 12,000 gallons of storage and the self levelling drinker, the volunteers were able to step right in and complete the project by mid-afternoon.
“I enjoyed my time working on the guzzler project and hope NV Energy does it again next year,” said Mariel Forman, NV Energy customer service representative. “It was a great opportunity to give back to wildlife in Nevada and spend time with my family.”
Learn more about the history of guzzler building in Nevada HERE.
The TRCP is your resource for all things conservation. In our weekly Roosevelt Report, you’ll receive the latest news on emerging habitat threats, legislation and proposals on the move, public land access solutions we’re spearheading, and opportunities for hunters and anglers to take action. Sign up now.
Hunters and Anglers Applaud EXPLORE Act Implementation by Secretary Burgum
Directive brings historic outdoor recreation law to life, unlocking new opportunities and access for public land users across the country
Last week, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum signed Secretarial Order 3435, officially implementing the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act. The EXPLORE Act is a comprehensive legislative package passed early in 2025 that would expand access opportunities to a variety of public land users, streamline permitting processes for businesses focused on providing recreation opportunities, and modernize outdoor infrastructure. Its implementation marks a historic step forward in expanding outdoor recreation access and modernizing federal recreation policy across the country.
“TRCP joins hunters, anglers, and the millions of other Americans who recreate on public lands and waters in thanking Secretary Burgum for implementing this important bipartisan legislation,” said Joel Pedersen, president and CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “The EXPLORE Act will have a lasting impact on the continued growth of the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy as it continues to evolve in the 21st century. Its implementation will ensure that the agencies and the public have the support and tools they need to make the most of their days outdoors.”
Among many other things, the EXPLORE Act:
- Expands availability of public target shooting ranges on BLM and Forest Land.
- Improves road and trail transportation maps on federal land, benefiting motorized and nonmotorized access.
- Allows states, counties, and Tribes to conduct recreation infrastructure enhancement or improvements on public lands through Good Neighbor Agreements.
- Improves federal coordination and provide assistance to non-federal partners in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species.
TRCP works to maintain and strengthen the future of hunting and fishing by uniting and amplifying our partners’ voices in conserving and restoring wildlife populations and their habitat as challenges continue to evolve.
Top photo: Josh Metten
Learn more about the outdoor recreation economy HERE
The TRCP is your resource for all things conservation. In our weekly Roosevelt Report, you’ll receive the latest news on emerging habitat threats, legislation and proposals on the move, public land access solutions we’re spearheading, and opportunities for hunters and anglers to take action. Sign up now.
TRCP Applauds Legislative Wins for Oregon’s Wildlife, Habitat, and Outdoor Economy
Major investments and policy gains mark a strong 2025 session for conservation, but work left on the table
As the Oregon Legislature adjourns Sine Die, the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership celebrates a few key legislative victories that will strengthen habitat connectivity and bolster agency capacity.
“This session proved that conservation can unite diverse stakeholders when the focus is clear, the science is strong, and the outcomes benefit the public,” said Tristan Henry, TRCP’s Oregon field representative. “From corridors to core funding, conservation policy built broad, bipartisan coalitions.”
Wildlife Connectivity Policy Passed (HB 2978)
HB 2978 establishes formal coordination between the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and Oregon Department of Transportation on wildlife movement and habitat connectivity. The law ensures a long-term, science-based strategy for planning and implementing wildlife crossing and corridor projects statewide.
Next Steps on Wildlife Crossing Funding
The legislature’s anticipated capstone for the 2025 session, a comprehensive transportation package that included funding for wildlife crossing infrastructure, fell short in the final hours of the session. While this outcome is disappointing, the inclusion of wildlife crossing investments in the proposal represents meaningful progress and growing recognition of the issue among state leaders. TRCP and our partners remain committed to advancing these provisions in the next available opportunity, whether during the 2025 short session or in a potential special session this fall.
Stable Agency Funding Secured
The Oregon Legislature passed HB 5009, which provides essential base budget allocations for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. These funds will allow the agency to maintain staffing, monitoring, and habitat work critical to its mission. TRCP supported this bill to ensure that ODFW can continue at as close to current service levels as possible.
In tandem with this, HB 2342 will increase hunting and fishing license and tag fees to reflect inflation and support service-level stability. While no one in the sporting community welcomes higher costs, this user-based model remains foundational to fish and wildlife management in Oregon and partner organizations like the Oregon Hunters Association provided key support to help safeguard the agency’s financial footing.
Effort to Fund Oregon’s State Wildlife Action Plan Falls Short
HB 2977 aimed to establish Oregon’s first dedicated, state-managed funding source for the State Wildlife Action Plan. The bill earned broad, bipartisan support and backing from a wide range of stakeholders. Despite this momentum, it was ultimately blocked through procedural maneuvering late in the session.
Advancing Aquatic Invasive Species Protections
Oregon has officially updated its aquatic invasive species (AIS) permitting system with the passage of HB 2982. This new law closes long-standing loopholes by requiring all watercraft, regardless of size, to carry an AIS permit, ensuring shared responsibility among all users of Oregon’s waterways.
TRCP played a key role in supporting this legislation, submitting multiple rounds of testimony and drawing on national findings from our Aquatic Invasive Species Commission. The law will strengthen inspection programs, bolster funding for early detection and response, and position Oregon to align with emerging federal guidance under the Explore Act.
Other Actions
Even in a contentious session, meaningful progress was made. Lawmakers approved HB 3940B, securing critical investments in wildfire preparedness and forest resilience. We commend our partners for leading this effort and helping ensure Oregon is better equipped for future fire seasons. Earlier in the session, HB 3846, a proposal to allow state leasing of the federally managed Ochoco National Forest, was stopped in committee. While the bill did not advance, it highlighted ongoing threats to foundational public land protections under NEPA, FLPMA, and the Wilderness Act.
TRCP will continue working alongside state and federal partners, private landowners, and fellow sporting organizations to ensure these wins are effectively implemented, and that Oregon’s public lands and wildlife remain protected for future generations.
“Our outdoor traditions and our economy all depend on healthy fish and wildlife populations,” said Henry. “Oregon took meaningful steps forward this session, and we look forward to building on this momentum.”
The TRCP is your resource for all things conservation. In our weekly Roosevelt Report, you’ll receive the latest news on emerging habitat threats, legislation and proposals on the move, public land access solutions we’re spearheading, and opportunities for hunters and anglers to take action. Sign up now.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
TRCP has partnered with Afuera Coffee Co. to further our commitment to conservation. $4 from each bag is donated to the TRCP, to help continue our efforts of safeguarding critical habitats, productive hunting grounds, and favorite fishing holes for future generations.
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