Dear Editor,
For too long, Congress has operated under a “defund, devalue, destroy” mindset when it comes to federal land management agencies like the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service. This erosion of funding has left our public lands understaffed, under-maintained, and unable to fully serve the American people. It’s as flawed as the “defund the police” movement, which rightfully drew criticism for weakening essential services instead of improving them. Just as public safety relies on a well-funded police force, our public lands rely on a well-funded Forest Service and BLM to manage wildfires, maintain trails, and support the growing outdoor recreation economy.
Some argue these agencies just need to be “more efficient,” but efficiency doesn’t mean doing more with less — it means having the right resources to do the job well. Imagine trying to build a house alone or teach 100 kids with one teacher. We’re now asking the Forest Service to maintain trails without trail crews and the BLM to manage rangeland without range managers. It doesn’t work.
Additionally, outdoor recreation is a major economic driver, especially in rural communities. In 2022, it contributed $1.1 trillion to the U.S. economy and supported 4.5 million jobs. Yet, Congress continues to shortchange these agencies, forcing them to stretch every dollar while struggling with rising visitation, weakening infrastructure, and climate-driven wildfire threats.
Investing in these agencies (and the public servants who are members of our communities) pays off. Well-maintained forests and rangeland to reduce wildfire risks, improve water quality, and provide sustainable jobs.
Every dollar spent on trail maintenance, wildfire prevention, and recreation infrastructure returns many times over in economic growth, healthier ecosystems, and safer communities.
Congress must stop starving these agencies and start funding them at levels that match their growing responsibilities.
Ryan Grove,
Pinedale, Wyo.
