On July 3, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order that could change the way Americans enjoy their public lands. The creation of the Make America Beautiful Again Commission is a game-changer for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly those who love off-roading, hunting, fishing, and other rugged pursuits. This new policy aims to roll back restrictions, cut bureaucratic red tape, and make public lands more accessible for everyone, all while boosting the economy and promoting responsible land use.
The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), a group that champions off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts, called the executive order a “major step forward.” ORBA’s CEO, Fred Wiley, didn’t hold back his excitement, stating that the move sends a clear message: public lands belong to the people. For years, folks who enjoy off-roading, hunting, or fishing have faced roadblocks—literally and figuratively. Overly strict rules, poorly maintained trails, and endless paperwork have made it tough to fully enjoy America’s vast natural playgrounds. This new commission, led by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, is set to tackle those issues head-on.
The executive order lays out a clear mission for the commission. It’s tasked with opening up national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges for a wide range of activities. Think hunting, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing, climbing, boating, off-roading, and even wildlife viewing. The goal isn’t just about having fun—it’s about making sure these lands are used responsibly while fueling local economies. In 2023 alone, outdoor recreation pumped $1.2 trillion into the U.S. economy and supported 5 million jobs. That’s a massive impact, especially for rural communities where off-road businesses and tourism are lifelines.
For guys who love the thrill of hitting the trails in a Jeep or tearing through the backcountry on an ATV, this is big news. ORBA has long argued that off-road recreation isn’t the enemy of conservation—it’s a partner. Wiley pointed out that OHV users care deeply about the land they ride on. They’re not out to tear it up; they want to preserve it for future adventures. The commission’s focus on voluntary conservation efforts, like working with local groups to maintain trails or restore wildlife habitats, aligns perfectly with this mindset. It’s about getting everyone—riders, hunters, and land managers—on the same page.
The executive order also takes aim at the bureaucratic mess that’s been holding things back. Agencies like the Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service are now directed to streamline processes and reduce delays. For anyone who’s ever tried to get a permit to use public land, you know how frustrating the red tape can be. The commission will work to make things simpler, so you can spend less time filling out forms and more time enjoying the great outdoors.
Another key piece of the puzzle is fixing the maintenance backlog. The National Park Service and Forest Service are drowning in billions of dollars’ worth of deferred repairs—$23 billion and $10.8 billion, respectively. That means crumbling roads, unsafe trails, and neglected landmarks. The commission will push for solutions to get these areas back in shape, making them safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
ORBA is already gearing up to make sure the off-road community has a voice in this process. They’re urging enthusiasts to get involved, stay informed, and speak up to ensure motorized access stays protected. This isn’t just about today’s riders—it’s about making sure the next generation can experience the same thrills. Whether it’s cruising through a national forest or exploring a wildlife refuge, the goal is to keep these lands open and welcoming.
The commission’s work won’t just benefit off-roaders. Hunters, anglers, and anyone who loves spending time in nature stands to gain. By promoting activities like fishing and wildlife viewing, the executive order taps into America’s deep-rooted love for the outdoors. It’s a nod to the legacy of figures like Teddy Roosevelt, who saw public lands as a treasure for all Americans to enjoy. The order even builds on the Great American Outdoors Act, a landmark law from Trump’s first term that poured money into parks and public lands.
For rural America, this could be a lifeline. Off-road businesses, from gear shops to tour operators, are economic engines in small towns. More access to public lands means more visitors, more jobs, and more opportunities for communities that depend on outdoor tourism. ORBA’s mission has always been about balancing recreation with stewardship, and they see this executive order as a chance to prove that responsible OHV use can coexist with conservation.
The Make America Beautiful Again Commission isn’t just about opening gates—it’s about rethinking how we manage public lands. By focusing on clean water, wildlife restoration, and modernizing land use, the commission aims to create a system that works for everyone. It’s a chance for outdoor lovers to show that they’re not just users of the land but caretakers, too.
As the commission gets to work, ORBA is calling on the off-road community to step up. They want riders to join the conversation, support advocacy efforts, and help shape the future of public lands. For anyone who’s ever felt the rush of navigating a rocky trail or the peace of a quiet fishing spot, this is a moment to make your voice heard. The lands are yours—now’s the time to claim them.
