Executive Order Recognizes the Conservation Contributions of Hunters and Anglers, Expands Opportunities on Public Lands

BISMARCK, N.D. (September 21, 2026) — The North Dakota Wildlife Federation welcomes President Donald Trump’s executive order, Reinvigorating America’s Hunting Heritage, and its focus on expanding hunting and fishing opportunities, improving access to public lands and waters, and recognizing the important role hunters and anglers play in wildlife conservation.

The executive order directs federal agencies to identify opportunities to expand hunting, fishing, shooting and other recreational access on federal lands, improve access to landlocked public lands, encourage voluntary access agreements, and strengthen wildlife management efforts. It also calls for greater support for hunter education and recruitment, including opportunities for young people and veterans.

“Hunters and anglers have always been more than participants in the outdoors. We are investors in it,” said John Bradley, executive director of the North Dakota Wildlife Federation. “In North Dakota, we understand that connection. The dollars generated through licenses, permits, excise taxes and Federal Duck Stamp purchases have helped build one of the greatest conservation systems in the world.”

“Expanding opportunities to hunt and fish on public lands is important, but access is only one piece of the puzzle. We also need to make sure we are investing in the habitat, wildlife management and public-land infrastructure that make those opportunities possible.”

The order calls for federal agencies to improve access to difficult-to-access federal lands and waters through tools including voluntary access easements, land exchanges and cooperative agreements while respecting private property rights. It also directs agencies to examine policies affecting hunting, fishing and recreational access and to coordinate with state wildlife agencies on game management, habitat connectivity, invasive species and other factors affecting wildlife populations.

Bradley said the emphasis on working with states and private landowners is particularly important in North Dakota.

“We appreciate the recognition that access and conservation go hand in hand,” Bradley said. “If we want the next generation to experience what North Dakota hunters and anglers have experienced, we have to leave them healthy wildlife populations, productive habitat and public lands they can actually get to. “An executive order can establish priorities, but conservation on the ground requires sustained investment and cooperation. We will continue working with federal and state partners, members of Congress, landowners and the sporting community to make sure North Dakota remains a place where people can hunt, fish and enjoy the outdoors while conserving the wildlife and habitat that make those traditions possible.”