Plans to sell three million acres of public land across 11 Western states have generated significant debate regarding the potential impacts on hunting and recreation. Utah Senator Mike Lee addressed the concerns raised by “Hunter Nation,” stating that he is responsive to their feedback and will make changes in the coming days.
Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-Dist. 1) expressed skepticism about the federal government’s management of over 640 million acres of public land. He argued that federal control often leads to poor land management, citing forest fires as a frequent result of ineffective oversight by the Forest Service. LaMalfa noted the complications arising from the mixed ownership of land, which can hinder private landowners’ access due to inadequate road maintenance by the federal government.
He also addressed concerns that the sale of public land would significantly impact hunting and recreational activities, suggesting that fears of widespread negative consequences are exaggerated. LaMalfa reassured that the process would be conducted thoughtfully and not result in large-scale transfers to private entities like Bill Gates or Blackrock.
The initial proposal aimed to sell about half a percent of all public land, but revisions are currently underway in the United States Senate.
