Image: Lunch Loops, Colorado by BLM/Leslie Kehmeier
What’s Happening with the Big Beautiful Bill
UPDATE: Utah Senator Mike Lee has removed his public lands sell-off language from the Senate budget reconciliation bill. More details will follow—we know our work is not done—but the outdoor community can be proud of speaking out and creating change!
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Utah Senator Mike Lee has introduced new legislation to sell off public lands through the Senate budget reconciliation bill, and a vote could occur at any time. Leave No Trace opposes this effort because it will not achieve its stated goal of increasing housing in the United States. Instead, the proposed sale of 1.2 million acres will reduce access to places that Americans depend on for recreation, time in nature, and well-being.
“At its core, Leave No Trace is based on the idea that individual actions make a difference, especially when collective efforts amplify them,” says Dana Watts, the executive Director of Leave No Trace. “Senator Lee wants to sell an unprecedented amount of public land. By acting collectively, we can put a stop to this poorly considered proposal.”
What’s Happening with the Roadless Rule
In April 2025, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced a sweeping policy change that could have significant consequences for the future of our national forests. Rescinding the Roadless Rule opens the door to expanded road building, logging, and industrial development in some of the most ecologically and culturally significant public lands in the country. In real numbers, this could impact:
- 37% of Montana’s National Forest acreage
- 45% of Idaho’s
- 35% of Wyoming’s
- 92% of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest
Fast-tracking development by skipping public input and environmental review puts our lands at long-term risk, especially in areas that support biodiversity, hold deep cultural value, and serve as critical outdoor recreation spaces for millions.
Why It All Matters
Public lands are a shared resource — and a shared responsibility. Decisions like this don’t just affect trees and trails. They impact air and water quality, habitat for threatened species, cultural and Indigenous heritage, and the very places where people go to find peace, connection, and community.
At Leave No Trace, we believe that protection and responsible use go hand in hand. That’s why we’re watching this issue closely — and why we’ll continue to advocate for policies that balance access, conservation, and sustainability.
Take action today by contacting your state lawmakers. It only takes a few minutes to take a stand for public lands.