Drama over our public lands isn’t new. There has long since been general contention around maintaining some balance in its use among the likes of outdoorsmen and residents. And let’s not forget the huge stakeholder that is Native Americans. However, at the heart of the matter lies the delicate balance between preserving public land’s natural health and the wishes of public users, such as hunters, hikers, and campers.
When it comes to such issues, Utah is ground zero.
On August 20th, the state filed a case with the United States Supreme Court, seeking to dramatically alter the federal government’s management of public land.
Unappropriated Lands
The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of the federal government’s indefinite ownership and control of what the state calls “unappropriated” lands—acreage that is not designated for specific federal purposes like national parks or monuments. The state argues this negates the ability to self-govern, for example, through developing infrastructure or generating tax revenue. The case specifically involves almost 20 million acres of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) alone.
By all accounts, Utah seeks a combination of assuming ownership of some areas, while discarding others through sales to the highest bidder.
The Outdoorsman and Sportsman
While some proposed uses for unappropriated lands are well-meaning or even good, it’s the outdoor enthusiast who takes it on the chin. Why? These mostly pristine natural areas offer great opportunities for outdoor recreation and leisure activities that allow people to bond with outdoor spaces. They’re a veritable treasure trove for hikers, campers, hunters, and photographers.
Heck, it’s home to a healthy chunk of the North American hunting tradition-an age-old institution that has been passed down through generations. It conjures up old images of hunters donning red and black plaid, meat poles, campfires, and laughter at the hands of embellished stories of past hunts.
Indeed, for today’s public land sportsman, available unappropriated land will bring to mind crisp mornings, majestic deer and elk, and the best of memories shared among friends. So, the biggest loser is arguably the hunter—and it’s not just the tradition that takes a hit. It’s the authentic connection of people to nature and, of course, an important source of both sport and sustenance. As for the latter, thoughts like challenging stalks, arduous pack-outs, and fresh backstraps come to mind.
Hunters and other adventurists are huge stakeholders when it comes to unappropriated
public lands
Obviously, there’s no shortage of special imagery when it comes to hunting in wilderness settings. After all, these places remind us of the places that offer a glance at the adventurous, self-reliant lifestyles of men and women who pride themselves as outdoor enthusiasts.
Beyond the personal gratification obtained, the hunting community also plays a critical role in conservation efforts, using license fees and taxes to fund wildlife and habitat management and restoration efforts – ones that benefit all who seek to enjoy nature, whether with guns, bows, hiking sticks, or cameras in hand.
The Future
There will always be debate over the future uses of public lands. This much is obvious. The topic of unappropriated lands is no doubt a little vague. As for Utah’s situation, the Supreme Court is currently deciding whether to proceed with the case. Either way, the outcome could alter the balance of federal and state control over North American public lands, particularly in the West. Stay tuned.