The Trump administration has announced plans to significantly expand public access to federal lands for recreational activities, including hunting, fishing, and off-road vehicle use.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed opening over 95 percent of the National Wildlife Refuge System to hunters and anglers, which would create more than 1,450 new recreational opportunities across the refuge system. Officials say the expansion would provide economic benefits to rural communities that depend on outdoor recreation.

Separately, the administration is moving forward with plans to allow dirt bikes, ATVs, trucks, snowmobiles and other off-road vehicles access to tens of millions of acres of public lands and national parks. The vehicle access expansion affects areas that were previously restricted or had limited motorized access.

Environmental groups have criticized the off-road vehicle plan, arguing it could damage sensitive habitats, harm waterways, and threaten endangered species. Critics warn that increased vehicle traffic in pristine areas could force large predators like grizzly bears into closer contact with humans and cause other ecological disruptions.

The proposals are part of the administration's broader approach to increase public land access and reduce restrictions on recreational and commercial activities. The plans require various approval processes and public comment periods before implementation.