For too long, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has prioritized using the public lands it manages for resource extraction and development. It’s time for the agency to focus on conserving these lands for the good of people, wildlife and climate.

Roughly 90 percent of BLM managed lands are currently open for oil and gas leasing, and many others face threats from mining, unregulated motorized recreation and disposal for development. These multiple uses cause unnecessary habitat destruction and damage to cultural sites. However, a new rulemaking by BLM will enable the agency to correct this imbalance and prioritize conservation of these lands for responsible recreation, cultural site protection, safeguarding of drinking water, wildlife preservation and climate crisis mitigation.

Thank you,