NWTF Supports GAOA 250 to Improve Public Lands for Hunters and Outdoor Enthusiasts
EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The National Wild Turkey Federation announced its support today for the Great American Outdoors Act 250. This legislation would modernize and maintain federal public lands managed by the National Park Service, USDA Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Indian Education in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The bill would redesignate and continue the Legacy Restoration Fund to address priority deferred maintenance on trails, roads, bridges, parking areas and other infrastructure. These improvements directly support public access and outdoor recreation on national forests and refuges where NWTF members hunt wild turkeys and other game.
A key provision establishes a categorical exclusion from the National Environmental Policy Act for deferred maintenance projects funded under the act. Agencies could use this authority to expedite repairs on priority projects. This change would help reduce long-standing backlogs and deliver safer, more functional access points faster for sportsmen and other visitors.
The measure includes a pilot program for outdoor recreation infrastructure and sportsmen’s access projects on Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service lands. It prioritizes projects that enhance public access, visitor experience and outdoor recreation opportunities. The bill also directs agencies to incorporate accessibility improvements for people with disabilities and references the EXPLORE Act in that effort.
“The Great American Outdoors Act 250 represents a practical investment in America’s outdoor heritage and the infrastructure that makes it accessible,” said NWTF co-CEO Jason Burckhalter. “For NWTF members and hunters nationwide, maintained trails and access roads on national forests and refuges are essential to quality hunting experiences. This bill also supports hunters with disabilities through improved accessibility for members of our Wheelin’ Sportsmen program. A thriving hunting tradition depends on having access to lands that are well cared for.”
These provisions align with NWTF’s longstanding work to conserve wild turkey habitat, promote active forest management and secure reliable access for hunters on public lands. Improved roads, trails and facilities help sportsmen reach remote areas, reduce safety risks and support wildlife management activities that benefit wild turkeys and many other species.
The NWTF urges Congress to advance the Great American Outdoors Act 250, deliver these benefits to hunters, families and all who enjoy America’s public lands, and join in the vision of a nation united by the life-changing power of the outdoors.
About the National Wild Turkey Federation
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 25 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. Since 2022, the NWTF has also invested over $2.3 million in critical wild turkey research that, when leveraged with partner contributions, has resulted in more than $22 million to guide the management of the wild turkey and to ensure sustainable populations. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale to create healthy forests and wildlife habitats, clean and abundant water, resilient communities and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF is committed to creating a nation united by the life-changing power of the outdoors.