Access to Public Lands

Number: 1977-25

WHEREAS, vast areas of federal land within the United States are administered for the public benefit under multiple use concepts; and

WHEREAS, from time to time portions of these lands are sold, traded, or leased to private interests which may prevent public access to public properties; and

WHEREAS, the public has a right to use public lands for approved activities, including outdoor recreation, in accordance with regulations;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the National Wildlife Federation, in annual meeting assembled March 24-27-1977, in Washington, D.C., hereby urges the Bureau of Land Management and the United States Forest Service, at the time of any sale, exchange, or lease or renewal of lease of public land to reserve easements and rights-of-way for public access purposes; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that, if such land is fenced, the transferee or lease be required to install and maintain gates for public access over such easements and rights-of-way; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this organization urges the Federal Government to withhold payments in lieu of taxes to counties wherein public access to public lands is denied.