BLM Calls for Nominations to Help Connect More Americans to the Outdoors
WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Land Management seeks input on which public lands could be made more accessible for recreation. Under the Dingell Act, the Department of Interior asks the public to nominate areas suitable for hunting, fishing, riding, hiking, or other activities that lack public access. Over 7,000 nominations have been received since 2020.
The BLM recognizes that Americans deeply value their public lands and deserve clear, reliable opportunities to access them for recreational use. BLM is committed to making it easier for the public to understand where they can go and what areas are open, ensuring that outdoor recreation remains accessible, straightforward, and enjoyable for all.
Lands nominated for the BLM Dingell Act Priority Access List must be managed by the BLM, encompass at least 640 contiguous acres, and have significantly restricted or no public access. After reviewing nominations, BLM will attempt to enhance access to public lands using easements, rights-of-way, or purchases from willing sellers. The agency evaluates whether access issues can be resolved before nominating projects for congressional funding.
Nominations can be submitted through BLM’s Dingell Act Nomination Portal. All submissions must specify the location, acreage (if known), describe access issues, and include relevant details. Personal owner information will not appear in priority lists or congressional reports. The deadline for nominations is August 30, 2026.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.