The Fabric of the West Could be Changed Forever: Our Public Lands at Risk

An interactive map from the Wilderness Collective shows public lands at risk of being sold.

As outdoor enthusiasts, we know the heartbeat of the American West lies in its vast and accessible public lands. From the angler casting a line in a pristine mountain stream to the overlander navigating remote backcountry jeep trails, these shared spaces are the lifeblood of our recreation and a cornerstone of our heritage. But a grave threat looms, one that could irrevocably alter this landscape: the reintroduction of a sweeping public land sell-off within the Senate's latest iteration of President Trump's "One Big, Beautiful Bill" (BBB).

Just last month, a powerful surge of public outcry, fueled by a bipartisan coalition—including former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke, a Republican and Montanan himself—successfully halted a similar land sale provision in the House's version of the BBB. It was a victory for all who believe these lands belong to the public, not to the highest bidder. Yet, that triumph was fleeting.

Now, Utah Senator Mike Lee has resurrected this alarming proposal in the Senate, and its scope is far more drastic than what the House initially considered. The previous House proposal targeted around 500,000 acres, primarily in Utah and Nevada. The newly inserted language, however, mandates the sale of between 0.5% and 0.75% of all Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) lands across 11 western states. This could result in the largest sell-off of public lands in U.S. history. While Montana is reportedly exempt due to Senator Steve Daines' opposition, the impact on other states would be profound. Experts estimate this could translate to the sale of 2 to 3 million acres of public land over the next five years alone.

Proponents of the BBB claim various exemptions exist for these sales, including lands within National Parks, National Recreation Areas, and those with existing leases. They also assert that National Monuments are protected. However, a significant concern arises from the current Justice Department's stance, which suggests it could unilaterally revoke National Monument status. Such a move would dramatically increase the acreage of unprotected lands eligible for sale, further expanding the threat.

Whether you're a devoted angler, a seasoned hunter, a long-distance hiker, an overlander exploring forgotten routes, or a family enjoying a weekend camping trip, the current language within the BBB poses an existential threat to the very fabric of the public lands we deeply love and cherish. The long-term consequences for public recreation and our ever-shrinking wilderness could be absolutely catastrophic.

This isn't merely a legislative maneuver; it's a brazen land grab that threatens to privatize our shared wild spaces, putting them behind "No Trespassing" signs for generations to come. If this proceeds, we won't just be discussing policy; we'll be lamenting "How the West Was Lost."

Key Risks and Data Points Highlighting the Threat:

• Vast Acreage at Stake: The Senate proposal mandates the sale of 0.5% to 0.75% of all  BLM and USFS lands in 11 western states.

• Historic Privatization: This could lead to the largest sell-off of public lands in U.S. history.

• Immediate Impact: Estimates suggest 2 to 3 million acres could be sold within the next five years.

• National Monument Vulnerability: The Justice Department's interpretation could allow for the revocation of National Monument status, making even more cherished lands eligible for sale.

• States Affected: Public lands in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming are targeted.

But don't just take our word for it. The alarm bells are ringing across the outdoor community and beyond. See what other reputable publications are saying about this proposed public lands sell-off:

• Wilderness Society: Interactive Map of Public Lands at Risk

• Meateater: Public Land Sales are Back on the "One Big, Beautiful Budget Bill

• Field & Stream: New Map Reveals Specific Public Lands Eligible for Sale in BBB

• Wilderness Society: 250+ million acres of public lands eligible for Sale

• Outside Magazine: There's a New Plan to Sell Off Public Lands

Now is the time to act

We urge you, as overlanders and stewards of our wild places, to immediately contact your congressperson and senators. Tell them unequivocally that our public lands must remain accessible and within the hands of the public. Let your voice be heard before the gates close forever.