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National Parks Open Doors to Hunters, Anglers
11 May
Summary
- Hunting and fishing restrictions may be eased in 76 National Park Service sites.
- Interior Department aims to remove 'unnecessary barriers' to outdoor activities.
- Conservation groups express safety concerns, while hunting groups welcome changes.
Dozens of National Park Service (NPS) sites may soon see eased hunting and fishing restrictions following an Interior Department directive. An internal memo from April 21 instructs managers to remove what are described as unnecessary barriers to these activities across about 76 sites where they are already permitted.
This action aligns with a broader January Secretarial Order from the Interior Department, which sought to identify and eliminate regulatory obstacles to hunting and fishing on department-managed lands. The department stated this approach promotes sensible public land management by increasing access responsibly.
However, the directive has drawn mixed reactions. Some conservation groups, like the National Parks Conservation Association, have expressed deep concerns about public safety and resource conservation. Conversely, hunting advocacy groups, such as the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, have lauded the move, emphasizing the historical role of sportsmen in conservation efforts.
The NPS currently permits hunting in 76 of its units and trapping in 31, with fishing allowed in 213 units. These changes could affect specific locations like Cape Cod National Seashore, Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.
