Great American Outdoors Act to fund projects enhancing infrastructure, recreation, and conservation efforts nationwide.
The Departments of Agriculture (USDA) and the Interior have proposed a $2.8 billion investment for fiscal year 2025 under the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) to improve public lands and Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded schools. Projects are planned across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and various U.S. territories.
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland said, “Addressing the long-delayed maintenance needs of the nation’s aging infrastructure allows safe and equitable access to our outdoor spaces, creates new jobs, and preserves our natural heritage… Working together with state, local, and Tribal governments, we are committed to ensuring that every child, family, and community has access to nature and its benefits.”
The GAOA, enacted in August 2020, created the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF), which allocates up to $1.9 billion annually through 2025 to address maintenance needs in national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, recreation areas, and BIE-funded schools. The act also allots $900 million per year for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), to secure public access, enhance recreation, protect watersheds, and preserve ecosystems.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Interior Department officials as they collaborate with the USDA on conservation efforts.
- For discernment for Secretaries Haaland and Vilsack as they lead their respective departments.
Sources: Department of Agriculture
