The megabill currently in the Senate includes a mandate to sell upward of 2 million acres of public lands, mostly in the West, that are currently managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Here is why no bill should ever include such things.
First, public lands are a matter of economic well-being. A 2024 report states that recreation on BLM lands contributes $8.8 billion to the economy in Colorado alone. Recreation in U.S. National Forests contributes $12.5 billion in GDP nationwide.
Secondly, public lands are a matter of overall human well-being. Protected natural areas benefit our civilization in more ways than we realize. For example, forests and wetlands filter water, reducing water treatment costs. These places provide habitat for creatures that pollinate our crops. Also, spending time in nature has proven physical and mental health benefits. This sell-off of public lands has human health implications.
If this goes through, it won’t just affect mountain town dwellers like myself who want options for places to hike my dogs. Even if you live in a big city and would never dream of going camping, this will affect you and our country. To quote a renowned folk singer, “this land was made for you and me!”
Laurel Snerch
Mancos
