Trump Establishes ‘Make America Beautiful Again’ Commission to Expand Access to Public Lands

Washington, D.C.: President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order on Wednesday creating the President’s Make America Beautiful Again Commission, a new federal body tasked with conserving America’s natural treasures while expanding access to national parks, forests, and public lands.The order highlights growing concerns over deferred maintenance across federal lands — including $23 billion in backlogs at the National Park Service — and pledges to cut bureaucratic barriers limiting outdoor recreation. Citing the economic power of the outdoor industry, which generates $1.2 trillion in output and supports 5 million jobs, the White House said the initiative aims to restore America’s lands while fueling economic growth.Chaired by the Secretary of the Interior, the commission will coordinate with multiple federal agencies, including the Departments of Defense and Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency, and top White House advisers. Its mandate includes recommending strategies to improve fish and wildlife populations through voluntary, collaborative conservation rather than regulation; expanding access to clean drinking water; and promoting outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, hunting, and off-roading.President Trump emphasized that the order seeks to “prioritize responsible conservation, restore our lands and waters, and protect our Nation’s outdoor heritage for the enjoyment of the American people.”