BLM-Managed Lands: Open for Hunters During the 2025 Government Shutdown
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As the federal government shutdown, which began on October 1, 2025, continues, many public lands remain accessible for activities like hunting, providing opportunities for responsible outdoor recreation. At Not One Acre, we focus on factual updates to help hunters plan safely while emphasizing conservation. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, spanning over 245 million acres across the West, are generally open for dispersed hunting, though services like restrooms and trash collection may be limited. This allows continued access to diverse habitats for species like deer, elk, and upland birds, as long as state regulations and safety protocols are followed.
Why BLM Lands Are a Hunter's Go-To During Shutdowns
BLM-managed areas, such as those in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming, offer vast tracts for ethical hunting without the need for staffed facilities. For instance, regions like the San Juan Basin in New Mexico or the Book Cliffs in Utah provide prime spots for mule deer and elk, with roads and trails often remaining open. Hunters should prioritize self-reliance: Pack out all waste, verify state hunting seasons, and use apps for boundaries to avoid private land. This approach aligns with Leave No Trace principles, ensuring these lands stay viable for future use.
Supporting Organization: Backcountry Hunters & Anglers
Organizations like Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) are actively advocating for public lands access, including during shutdowns. BHA focuses on fair chase hunting, habitat conservation, and policy work to protect federal lands from threats like reduced funding. Their efforts include policy roundups and campaigns to maintain hunting opportunities on BLM and USFS lands, even amid disruptions. By joining BHA, hunters can contribute to long-term access and stewardship.
Ways to Support and Stay Involved
To help sustain these efforts, consider supporting BHA and similar groups:
- Join Backcountry Hunters & Anglers – Membership supports advocacy and events.
- Donate to BHA – Funds go toward policy work and habitat projects.
- BLM Hunting Resources – Plan hunts on open lands.
Useful Resources for Hunters
Navigate the shutdown with these links:
- BLM Alerts – Current status updates.
- Find a Forest – Forest access info.
- BHA Public Lands Hunting – Guides and advocacy tools.
Planning a hunt? Sign up for our newsletter for more updates on public lands, plus guides from our series. Hunt responsibly and stay informed!