In a significant move aimed at revitalizing America’s natural landscapes, President Donald J. Trump has announced the establishment of the “Make America Beautiful Again” Commission. This initiative, revealed on July 3, 2025, from the White House, seeks to address longstanding issues of mismanagement and neglect that have plagued the nation’s parks and public lands.
The commission, chaired by the Secretary of the Interior, will focus on enhancing conservation efforts, expanding public access to lands, and stimulating economic growth through responsible stewardship of natural resources. This announcement underscores the administration’s commitment to preserving the country’s vast landscapes and rich outdoor heritage for future generations.
Addressing Deferred Maintenance and Access Issues
America’s national parks and public lands have long been celebrated for their beauty and recreational opportunities. However, years of deferred maintenance have left many of these areas in disrepair. The National Park Service and the United States Forest Service face a combined backlog of over $33 billion in maintenance, affecting roads, trails, and historic landmarks.
President Trump highlighted the need to cut bureaucratic red tape that has restricted access to public lands for hunters, fishers, and hikers. “Land-use restrictions have stripped outdoorsmen of access to lands that belong to them,” he stated. The commission aims to reverse this trend by promoting policies that expand recreational access while ensuring sustainable conservation practices.
The Economic Impact of Outdoor Recreation
The outdoor recreation economy is a significant contributor to the U.S. economy, generating $1.2 trillion in economic output and supporting 5 million jobs as of 2023. The administration’s focus on conservation aligns with the economic benefits of outdoor activities, which comprised 3.1 percent of U.S. employment last year.
“Conservation and economic growth go hand in hand,” President Trump emphasized, pointing to the success of the Great American Outdoors Act in bolstering the outdoor economy.
Commission Structure and Objectives
The newly established commission will be led by key figures across various government departments, including the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of Agriculture, and Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency. The Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy will serve as the Executive Director.
The commission’s primary objectives include:
- Promoting responsible stewardship of natural resources.
- Expanding access to public lands for recreation, hunting, and fishing.
- Encouraging voluntary conservation efforts.
- Reducing bureaucratic delays in environmental management.
- Recovering fish and wildlife populations through collaborative efforts.
Conserving National Treasures
One of the commission’s key roles will be advising the President on how best to conserve America’s national treasures and natural resources. This includes facilitating interagency coordination on conservation efforts and providing actionable recommendations to enhance these initiatives.
The commission will also work on policies to improve water quality and availability, expand access to clean drinking water, and restore aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, it aims to broaden public access to national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges, promoting a wide range of outdoor activities.
Looking Ahead
This initiative represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the challenges facing America’s public lands. By fostering collaboration across federal agencies and encouraging public participation in conservation efforts, the “Make America Beautiful Again” Commission seeks to ensure that the nation’s natural beauty and outdoor heritage are preserved for generations to come.
As the commission begins its work, it will be closely monitored by environmental groups and outdoor enthusiasts alike, who are hopeful that this effort will lead to meaningful improvements in the management and accessibility of America’s cherished landscapes.
