In 2015, the U.S. Department of Interior launched a program connecting kids with national parks and other public lands by offering fourth graders and their families free entrance to these locations. The success of the program led Congress to ensure upcoming fourth graders have the same opportunities by making it law. It has encouraged young people to explore our landscapes and created future outdoor enthusiasts.
I’ve partnered with my colleague Senator Martin Henrich (D-NM) to continue this initiative with the introduction of the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act.
Introducing young Americans to our national parks encourages an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our country. I’m proud to support this legislation that allows the next generation to discover our national treasures and explore the outdoors.
The Every Kid Outdoors program has successfully encouraged tens of thousands of children and their families to explore America’s public lands, waters, historic sites and national parks – more than 2,000 sites in all.
More than 18,000 vouchers have been provided to Arkansas fourth graders, caregivers, educators and agency staff since 2021. Enthusiasm for this park pass is growing. This is great news because nurturing this connection leads to continued engagement and exploration of public lands, inspires environmental stewardship and increases participation in outdoor activities.
In our state, outdoor recreation impacts 43,000 jobs and generates more than $4 billion in consumer spending. Elevating this industry enhances opportunities and preserves our environment.
I recently met with Arkansans representing a number of outdoor recreation activities in The Natural State including hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking. These members of the Outdoor Alliance, a national coalition of organizations representing the outdoor recreation community, advocated for policies to strengthen access to public lands across the country.
We’ve been blessed to see the results of public and private investment in growing an interest in biking. Across the state, trails have gained popularity among locals as well as in the eyes of national biking enthusiasts.
The Adventure Cycling Association designated its first U.S. Bicycle Route System trail in Arkansas earlier this year. USBR 51 starts at the Missouri state line and travels 88 miles to Alma, Arkansas. More than one-third of the trail follows the Razorback Greenway. This follows Arkansas Monument Trails being recognized as the best mountain biking trails in the country.
Rugged rock formations in our state also attract rock climbers of all skill levels. Arkansas has more than 400 rock climbing sites. I’m proud to support this sport at home and nationwide by championing policies that provide the climbing community access to public lands. That’s why I recently joined a bipartisan letter urging the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service to reconsider policy changes that limit the use of fixed anchors for climbing in federally-designated wilderness areas.
The Natural State provides numerous opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors. Arkansans appreciate the beauty of our environment and want to explore these treasures in our backyard. I will continue working with many of my colleagues to make that even easier.