“The BLM regularly transfers public lands to local governments and nonprofits for a variety of public purposes. These transfers are typically accomplished under the provisions of the Recreation and Public Purposes (R&PP) Act or through direction from specific Acts of Congress. As a matter of policy, the BLM generally supports these legislative conveyances at no or low cost if the lands are appropriate for disposal and will be used for public purposes consistent with the R&PP Act. The BLM understands that the proposed management of the lands for conveyance to the State of Utah for inclusion in the state parks would be for public purposes.” — Thomas Heinlein, Assistant Director for National Conservation Lands & Community Partnerships at Bureau of Land Management
In Episode 419 of District of Conservation, Gabriella has a roundup of the latest conservation news you may have glossed over: two federal public lands bills, 2023 National Park Service lands visitor numbers, and oyster recovery in the Chesapeake Bay. Tune in to learn more!
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SHOW NOTES
Zinke Introduces the Bipartisan Public Lands in Public Hands Act
Zinke pitches bill restricting federal land transfers
Maloy and Lee introduce bill to transfer parcels of federally owned land in Utah to the state
Hidden gems, off-season trips highlights of 325.5 million national park visits in 2023
Oyster rebound undercut by returning diseases, weak market
Photo Credit: Gabriella Hoffman / Antelope Island State Park, May 2022