Each day, America’s hunters and fishers exemplify enduring values of liberty, individual responsibility, and environmental stewardship. Spanning landscapes from the vast plains of Texas to the towering peaks of Montana and the untouched wilderness of Alaska, these outdoor enthusiasts have spent nearly 250 years navigating our cherished lands, upholding a rich legacy of recreation, conservation, and sport. On this National Hunting and Fishing Day, we honor the generations of American hunters, anglers, and sportspeople who have preserved these vital traditions.
As President, my commitment to safeguarding our nation’s natural resources remains unwavering. During my first term, I enacted the Great American Outdoors Act—an achievement hailed as the most significant conservation milestone since Theodore Roosevelt’s administration. This landmark legislation designated 1.3 million acres of new wilderness, added 1,645 miles of trails to the National Recreational Trails System, and opened over 2.3 million acres for hunting and fishing. Now, that’s what I call a legacy of progress!
Expanding upon these substantial victories, I recently signed an Executive Order to launch the Make America Beautiful Again Commission. This initiative places a strong emphasis on enhancing recreational access to our public lands and waters, ensuring that every American can revel in the splendor of the great outdoors. Additionally, we are promoting conservation efforts, advocating for proactive forest management, and advancing the responsible stewardship of public lands, all while upholding strict standards for clean air and drinking water—an essential promise for our citizens.
This month, we salute the outdoor enthusiasts who truly embody the American spirit. We are committed to preserving our nation’s abundant landscapes, unparalleled natural beauty, and significant historical symbols. Our mission extends beyond mere preservation; we aim to ensure economic prosperity for current and future generations of American patriots, striking a balance between conservation and sustainability.