U.S. Announces Major Plan for 42 New Hunting Opportunities Nationwide

The United States Department of the Interior announced 42 "new proposed hunting opportunities across more than 87,000 acres within the National Wildlife Refuge System and National Fish Hatchery System."

The news was announced via a May 2, 2025, press release. 

"This proposal would more than triple the number of opportunities and quintuple the number of stations opened or expanded compared to the previous administration, underscoring a strong national commitment to outdoor recreation and conservation," the press release says.

“Expanding recreational access to our public lands isn’t just about tradition—it’s about supporting rural economies and the American families who depend on them,” said Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. 

“By opening more areas to hunting and outdoor recreation, we’re helping drive tourism, create jobs, and generate revenue for local communities, all while promoting responsible stewardship of our natural resources," he added.

The Service "is proposing to open or expand opportunities for hunting and sport fishing at 16 National Wildlife Refuge System stations and one National Fish Hatchery System station," the release notes. 

These stations "are located in Alabama, California, Idaho, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, North Carolina, Texas and Washington," the release says.

"The Service is committed to ensuring that all hunting and fishing opportunities align with state fish and wildlife regulations. We continue to work closely with our state partners to maintain consistency in areas such as the use of lead ammunition and fishing tackle, and we will incorporate these considerations into future updates," it adds.

“Hunting and fishing are traditional recreational activities deeply rooted in America’s heritage. National wildlife refuges, national fish hatcheries and other Service lands offer hunting and fishing access that helps boost local economies and gives Americans an opportunity to unplug,” said Fish and Wildlife Service Acting Director Paul Souza in the release. “We are pleased to expand access and offer new opportunities that are compatible with our conservation mission and are committed to responsibly managing these areas for the benefit of future generations.”

The National Wildlife Refuge System "is an unparalleled network of 573 national wildlife refuges and 38 wetland management districts," the release said. 

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