Policy Updates
EXPLORE ACT
UPDATE: EXPLORE ACT PASSES!
Probably the biggest win for outdoor recreation since the Great America Outdoors Act of 2020, the EXPLORE Act sends a clear message to our federal land managers that outdoor recreation is a priority. Read more about what this means for canyoning.
Even though in WA we are lucky to have lawmakers who value outdoor recreation, simply knowing they'll vote in our favor isn't enough. There are so many issues in Congress, we rely on our congressional representatives to advocate for making bills we care about a priority. Without advocates in congress, bills will never even make it to the floor for a vote. Let your representatives know you're paying attention, and you're grateful for their work to prioritize the EXPLORE Act and get it across the finish line!
This will encourage them to listen to us in the future!
What the EXPLORE Act will do:
Specifically related to canyoning, the EXPLORE Act would:
Protect rock climbing by ensuring that land managers recognize climbing and create climbing guidance that instructs land managers and the public how climbing is to be managed in a given area
Formally recognize that the use, placement, and maintenance of fixed anchors is appropriate use within a component of the National Wilderness Preservation System
Protect existing climbing routes and provide direction for their maintenance
Preserve the existing authority of land management agencies to regulate climbing to ensure it protects Wilderness characteristics, natural resources, and cultural values
Provide for public participation in decisions around fixed anchors in Wilderness areas.
Coordinate federal agencies to support and promote outdoor-based missions, from recreation to conservation and management.
Address outdated and lacking infrastructure in gateway communities, and funding outdoor infrastructure in underserved communities.
Improving outdoor access for current and past military service members, individuals with disabilities, and kids.
sources: REI, House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman, Access Fund )
Prohibiting Fixed Installations: Updates to NPS and USFS Directives
UPDATE: No updates at this time. Stay tuned!
What would these updated directives do:
Under construction
Updates to NPS and USFS handbooks would