Federal Lands

Updated 11.03.2025

In 2020, Congress passed, and President Trump signed, the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). This landmark law permanently funds the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at $900 million annually and allocates $9.5 billion over five years ($1.9 billion annually) to address deferred maintenance in national parks. GAOA remains widely regarded as the most significant conservation legislation in nearly half a century. Alongside GAOA, the American Horse Council (AHC) continues to advocate for policies that expand equestrian access to public trails.

Recent Legislative Developments

Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (EXPLORE Act)

Enacted in January 2025, this comprehensive law improves recreation opportunities and access to federal lands. Key provisions include:

· Identification and development of long-distance biking trails, with safeguards to protect existing horseback riding access.

· Expansion of broadband connectivity at recreation sites.

· Modernization of permitting processes for outfitters and guides.

· Support for gateway communities and strategies to manage overcrowding.

· Creation of a Federal Interagency Council on Outdoor Recreation.

Land and Water Conservation Fund Amendments (H.R. 1261)

Introduced in February 2025, this bill expands eligibility to include water quality improvement projects alongside traditional recreation and conservation initiatives. It aims to integrate hydrological restoration (wetlands, shorelines) into LWCF-supported projects.

No Net Gain in Federal Lands Act (H.R. 775)

Introduced in January 2025, this proposal would prohibit any net increase in federal land ownership in a given fiscal year, requiring that acquisitions be offset by equivalent disposals. This measure could influence future land conservation and recreation planning.

America’s Outdoor Recreation Act (S. 873)

Originally introduced in the 118th Congress, this bill served as the foundation for many provisions later incorporated into the EXPLORE Act. It emphasized trail development, recreation infrastructure, and streamlined permitting, while including language to protect legacy horseback access on trails identified for biking.

Equestrian Access and Advocacy

The American Horse Council continues to monitor and advocate for equestrian-friendly policies in federal recreation planning. Recent legislation, including the EXPLORE Act, reflects bipartisan recognition of horseback riding as a traditional and valued use of public lands. Agencies are now required to report on trail inventories and ensure that equestrian access is preserved when new recreation opportunities are developed.