Last week, a pivotal moment unfolded in Washington, D.C.—one that showcased the strength of a united outdoor community. Deep within the text of a must-pass budget reconciliation bill lurked a late-night amendment threatening nearly half a million acres of America’s public lands. Held in trust by the federal government for all citizens, these lands—from forested ridges to river canyons—faced the prospect of being sold off under the guise of one-time budget relief. For many, the fight began at ...

For nearly 150 years, the 1872 Mining Act has shaped hardrock mining on our public lands. Enacted in an era of rapid expansion and resource extraction, the act was originally designed to fuel growth in a burgeoning nation. However, what was once a forward-thinking policy now stands as an outdated framework that fails to address modern environmental challenges and scientific understandings. A Look Back: The History of the 1872 Mining Act Passed in 1872 during a period when economic expansion ...

Yesterday reminded me once again why I love being a member of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. Every year, we hold our annual chapter board meeting for the Mid-Atlantic Chapter, bringing everyone together in person. Given that our chapter encompasses Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Delaware, it’s not always easy for us to gather for in-person events. This meeting is always a special occasion because it allows us to connect face-to-face. This gathering allows us to sit down and ...

The legal and legislative fight to protect the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), a vast and ecologically significant region in northeastern Minnesota, has been ongoing for decades. The struggle centers around preserving the area’s pristine wilderness and preventing environmental degradation from logging, mining, and other industrial activities. Historical Background The Boundary Waters is a 1.1-million-acre wilderness area, renowned for its interconnected lakes, forests, and ...

Exciting news! Virginia’s Great Outdoors Act (HB2059) has been referred directly to the House Appropriations Committee (HAC), bypassing the Agriculture, Chesapeake, and Natural Resources Committee. This expedited process means we need your immediate help to ensure VGOA is heard by the HAC Natural Resources subcommittee. You can help by contacting HAC Natural Resources Subcommittee members. Reach out to them via phone or email to express your support for HB2059.   Here’s a template you can ...