Public Lands Are Finally Valued as Places of Connection, Community, and Shared Responsibility

My prediction for 2026 is that public lands will continue to welcome people to learn from and respect these places as extensions of our communities, with nature at the center. Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a long-time steward, or someone who hopes to visit one day, public lands belong to all of us—and that belonging comes with a shared sense of responsibility.

After a year of political shifts at both the federal and state levels, there is growing momentum across the country for people to hold administrations accountable for funding and protecting these lands, while expanding meaningful access for those who have historically faced barriers. This moment can bring increased focus on transparency, representation, and honoring the leadership and knowledge of Indigenous peoples who have cared for these lands since time immemorial.

The goal is to make deeper, long-term investments in community-based organizations, leadership that reflects the country in which we live, and partnerships grounded in trust and commitment. At the same time, there are real opportunities to collaborate because I truly believe we have more that unites us—like a shared love for our lands, clean air and water, and healthy futures for our families. While this work will require years of continued collaboration, it will ultimately bring us to a future where public lands are places of connection, shared responsibility, and safe spaces for all.