Public Lands Update: Reopening Progress and Non-Profit Heroes Post-Shutdown

With the federal government shutdown ending, public lands are steadily returning to full operations, allowing visitors to resume activities like hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting with restored services. Most National Park Service sites, BLM areas, and national forests have reopened visitor centers, resumed permit processing, and begun addressing any maintenance backlogs. This swift recovery highlights the resilience of our public lands system and the crucial role of nonprofit partners in bridging gaps during disruptions.

Non-Profits Stepping Up for General Access

Several nonprofits played key roles in keeping parks operational during the shutdown. For instance, Friends of the Smokies collaborated with local governments and tribes to fund staffing at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ensuring access from October 4 through early November. Similarly, the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy stepped in to maintain beloved sites in the San Francisco area, focusing on visitor safety and resource protection. Friends of Acadia emphasized Leave No Trace education to help manage unstaffed areas in Acadia National Park. These efforts minimized environmental impacts and supported local economies reliant on tourism.

Highlighting Hunting Non-Profits: Advocates for Access and Preservation

Hunters are among the most dedicated users and stewards of public lands, contributing through license fees that fund habitat restoration and wildlife management. Organizations like Backcountry Hunters & Anglers (BHA) have long advocated for maintaining public access, including during challenges like shutdowns, by pushing for policies that protect hunting opportunities on federal lands. BHA's work includes campaigns to open locked gates and improve access points, ensuring hunters can ethically pursue game while conserving ecosystems.

Another standout is the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), which has helped secure and enhance public lands for hunting. In 2025, RMEF's advocacy efforts contributed to keeping lands in public hands, opening new access routes, and supporting wildlife corridors—benefits that extend to all users. Groups like the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP) also oppose large-scale land transfers, preserving hunting grounds on BLM and USFS properties. These nonprofits underscore how hunters play a vital role in land preservation through active involvement and funding.

Ways to Support These Organizations

To contribute to ongoing efforts, consider donating or joining:

• Donate to Friends of the Smokies – Supports park operations and projects.
• Donate to Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy – Funds Bay Area park initiatives.
• Join Backcountry Hunters & Anglers – Advocate for public access and hunting rights.
• Donate to Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation – Helps conserve elk habitat on public lands.
• Support Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership – Funds policy work for public lands.

Useful Resources for Planning Your Next Outing

With reopenings in full swing, use these for your trips:

• NPS Plan Your Visit – Current park status and alerts.
• BLM Recreation – Hunting and fishing maps on BLM lands.
• U.S. Forest Service – Forest access and permits.
• USFWS Hunting – Refuge hunting opportunities.

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