BLM Southeastern States Office engages visitors at the Mississippi Sports & Outdoors Show

The Mississippi Sports & Outdoors Show, held July 24–26 at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds, once again brought together thousands of outdoor enthusiasts for a weekend celebrating hunting, fishing, land management, and recreation. As the largest indoor, outdoor show in the state, the event offered a unique opportunity for agencies and organizations to meet Mississippians where their passions are, right in the heart of the outdoors community. 

This year, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Southeastern States joined the show with an informational table alongside other exhibitors, creating a welcoming space for conversations with visitors, families, and partners. With Mississippi’s strong outdoor heritage on full display—from rods and reels to ATVs, farm equipment, DockDogs competitions, and even Twiggy the Water-Skiing Squirrel—the event served as an ideal platform for sharing how public lands contribute to these traditions. 

For many attendees, it came as a surprise to learn that BLM-administered lands exist east of the Mississippi River. Staff from BLM Southeastern States were able to answer questions, highlight local areas managed by the agency, and explain BLM’s broader mission: sustaining the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for present and future generations. Those one-on-one conversations helped bridge a common knowledge gap and sparked meaningful interest from visitors eager to understand where BLM lands are located and how they can be enjoyed. 

The show also provided valuable time for BLM staff to connect with partners—including conservation organizations, land managers, and recreation groups—who share a commitment to expanding outdoor access. These discussions emphasized how public lands support hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and countless recreation opportunities throughout the Southeast. By engaging partners in a busy, community‑centered environment, BLM strengthened relationships that help advance shared stewardship goals across the region. 

From energetic crowds exploring new gear, to families cheering on DockDogs and marveling at Twiggy’s performance, the Mississippi Sports & Outdoors Show showcased just how deeply outdoor traditions are woven into Mississippi culture. For BLM Southeastern States, being part of that excitement meant forging new connections, expanding awareness of public lands, and continuing important conversations about recreation, conservation, and shared responsibility. 

The weekend reaffirmed that public lands play an essential role in supporting the experiences outdoor enthusiasts love, and that partnerships and public engagement are key to ensuring those lands remain accessible, sustainable, and well‑managed for generations to come.