Critics say Trump’s opening of public lands to off-road vehicles is ‘reckless and nonsensical’
Move is part of broad effort to open public lands to industry and other uses, threatening wildlife and ecosystems
TL;DR
- Trump administration is allowing off-road vehicles on tens of millions of acres of public lands and national parks.
- This reverses protections established by the Nixon and Carter administrations aimed at safeguarding wildlife and federal lands.
- Environmental groups warn the plan threatens endangered species, sensitive habitats, waterways, and wildlife like grizzly bears.
- The move is seen as part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to open public lands to industry and reduce environmental regulations.
- Opponents argue that the increased power and popularity of off-road vehicles make current restrictions more necessary than ever.
- The US Forest Service is preparing to open 5 million acres of parkland, primarily in Idaho and Montana, to vehicles.