Outdoor Insider Fall 2015 | Page 12

Five Things You Need to Know About the Public Land Heist Tania Lown-Hecht, Communications and Public Engagement Manager, Outdoor Alliance Across the country, a battle is looming over the sale of a huge swath of America’s public lands— putting millions of acres (and the recreation opportunities they offer) under siege. America’s mountains, forests, and rivers belong to everyone. Public lands belong to all Americans. They are home to stunning climbing, paddling, hiking, skiing, biking, and camping that everyone can access. Together, Americans care for these special places, protecting them so that everyone can enjoy them, including the next generation. Some politicians would like to sell off public lands to generate profit for individual states or private entities. Right now, a handful of politicians backed by certain private inter \