June is Great Outdoors Month, which offers the perfect reason to get out to appreciate the natural beauty that makes Arkansas such a special place to live, work and visit.

From hunting and fishing to hiking, camping and floating our rivers, The Natural State offers countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Arkansas is fortunate to be home to some of the nation’s most remarkable outdoor destinations, including the Buffalo National River, Hot Springs National Park, the Ozark and Ouachita National Forests and world-class lakes and trails that attract visitors from across the country. These experiences are more than recreation –– they strengthen families, connect communities and encourage active, healthy lifestyles.

Outdoor recreation is also an important part of Arkansas’s economy. Communities across our state benefit from visitors who support local restaurants, outfitters, lodging providers and small businesses while experiencing the natural beauty and hospitality that make Arkansas unique.

For generations, Natural State families have built traditions around spending time together outdoors, making conservation and access important priorities throughout our state.

Arkansans understand the importance of being good stewards of our abundant natural resources. In the Senate, I am proud to support efforts that conserve wildlife and habitats and improve access to public lands. That includes the America the Beautiful Act, legislation that would help address long-overdue maintenance needs at our national parks and other public lands so they can continue serving visitors for years to come.

Spending time outside offers proven physical and mental health benefits for people of all ages. That is one reason I have worked with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to advance legislation that expands recreational opportunities and helps more Americans experience the benefits of spending time in nature.

Outdoor recreation can be especially meaningful for veterans. Arkansas is home to more than 200,000 veterans, many of whom have found that hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities help reduce stress, build connections and support their overall well-being after military service.

Recognizing those benefits, I recently joined bipartisan colleagues on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee to introduce the Veterans Outdoor Rehabilitation Act. This legislation would help state veterans agencies develop and expand outdoor recreation programs that support veterans’ health and quality of life.

I have also supported efforts to ensure young Americans have opportunities to experience our nation’s public lands. Last Congress, I partnered with colleagues to secure passage of the Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act, which extends through 2031 a successful program that provides free access to national parks and federal lands for fourth-grade students and their families.

The program has introduced thousands of children to America’s natural and historic treasures while encouraging families to explore more than 2,000 sites across the country. Participation continues to grow, demonstrating the value of helping young people develop an appreciation for the outdoors.

Additionally, I have supported legislation to promote hearing health for sportsmen, protect access for hunters and anglers and provide resources to conserve fish, wildlife and plant species that are vital to our outdoor heritage.

As our nation prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, this summer is a wonderful time to explore the public lands, parks and historic sites that tell America’s story. Whether spending a day on the water, hiking a favorite trail, casting a line with family or visiting one of our state’s historic and natural landmarks, there is no better time to experience the places that make Arkansas special. I remain committed to protecting and preserving these treasures so future generations can enjoy all The Natural State has to offer.