Interior Department Opens 90 Million Acres to Hunting and Fishing Nationwide

Salt Lake City, UT, August 18, 2026 —

The Department of the Interior has announced the opening of approximately 90 million acres across 111 national wildlife refuges and hatcheries in 32 states to public hunting and fishing activities. This significant expansion of recreational access is part of a broader initiative to deregulate the use of public lands.

The move aims to broaden opportunities for various types of hunting and fishing and streamline existing regulations. In Utah, the impact of this initiative could be felt in well-known areas, including the Jones Hole, Bear River, and Green River National Wildlife Refuges.

Proponents of the expanded access highlight potential economic benefits and improvements in wildlife management as key advantages. However, the decision has drawn criticism from some Utah-based environmental groups. These organizations have voiced concerns that the relaxation of wilderness protections could potentially lead to negative impacts on natural resources and delicate ecosystems within these areas.

The specific details regarding the types of hunting and fishing that will be permitted and any changes to the regulatory framework were not fully elaborated in the announcement. The Department of the Interior stated that the initiative aligns with efforts to promote responsible outdoor recreation on federal lands.

Further information on the specific regulations and the timeline for implementation in affected states is expected to be released by the Department of the Interior. The initiative covers a vast geographical area, affecting numerous refuges and hatcheries nationwide.

Story summarized from the original created by Leah Bowers on www.deseret.com, see more information here.