Trump is lifting restrictions on hunting in national parks, refuges and wilderness areas
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- The Trump administration, via Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, has directed national park and refuge managers to remove "unnecessary" restrictions on hunting and fishing, aiming to expand public access and support conservation and rural economies.
- The order affects 55 National Park Service sites in the contiguous U.S., leading to eased rules such as allowing tree stands, training hunting dogs, vehicle use for retrieving game, and extended hunting seasons in some areas.
- Hunting participation in the U.S. is declining, prompting officials and advocates to seek ways to promote the sport, including increasing access on public lands and creating new hunting opportunities.
- Critics, including former park officials and conservationists, argue the order undermines established, science-based regulations designed to protect visitor safety and wildlife, and lacks sufficient public input.
- Hunting organizations have praised the order as a positive step to balance wildlife management with outdoor traditions and to streamline regulations consistent with state rules.
