Look West: Public lands and energy news from the Center for Western Priorities


** Mike Lee amendment would allow Trump to get rid of national parks
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Thursday, December 18, 2025
Wheeler Peak Summit in Great Basin National Park in Nevada. Source: NPS Flickr. ([link removed])

Utah Senator Mike Lee has introduced an amendment ([link removed]) to the Interior appropriations bill ([link removed]) that would pave the way for the Trump administration to sell off national parks ([link removed]) to the highest bidder.

The president’s 2026 budget proposal ([link removed]) only contains funding for a fraction of the national park system and could lead to the elimination of more than 300 national park units ([link removed]) , according to the National Parks Conservation Association. The Interior appropriations bill, as currently written, would prevent the Interior department from disposing of national park units—a provision that was introduced in response to President Trump's proposed budget and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum’s suggestion ([link removed]) that the Park Service does not need many smaller historic and cultural sites that belong to all Americans. Amendment #3972
([link removed]) would strike section 130 in S.2431 ([link removed]) , the Interior appropriations bill, the section that requires the Interior department to maintain ownership and operation of all existing National Park Service units, national historic trails, and wild and scenic rivers.

If passed, Lee’s amendment would send a message to the White House that downsizing America’s national park system is acceptable. “This is a blatant and tone-deaf attack on America’s public lands,” said ([link removed]) Center for Western Priorities Deputy Director Aaron Weiss. “Sen. Lee’s amendment shows his complete disregard for the fact that national parks, trails, and recreation areas fuel local economies across the West.”


** Quick hits
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Mike Lee amendment would allow Trump to get rid of national parks

Flathead Beacon ([link removed]) | E&E News ([link removed]) | Wes Siler's Substack ([link removed]) | National Parks Conservation Association [blog] ([link removed]) | Center for Western Priorities [statement] ([link removed])

Colorado completes North America's largest wildlife overpass

Colorado Public Radio ([link removed]) | Axios ([link removed])

Sen. Daines revives effort to roll back Montana Wilderness Study Areas

Helena Independent Record ([link removed])

Colorado artist creates sticker to cover up Trump's face on national park pass

Outside ([link removed])

Coalition of local government leaders asks state AGs to hold feds accountable for wildfire preparation

E&E News ([link removed])

Federal judge strikes down logging project near Yellowstone National Park

Idaho Capital Sun ([link removed]) | Montana Free Press ([link removed])

Thinking about taking a pottery shard from Mesa Verde or Ute Mountain Tribal Park? Don't

Colorado Public Radio ([link removed])

How to see the Southwest's best red rock formations—without the crowds

National Geographic ([link removed])


** Quote of the day
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” Pearce’s views on public lands are completely out of touch with Colorado’s values. He will be the first to sell off our public lands, promote Trump’s misguided ‘drill baby drill’ policies, and demolish the protections that ensure our kids and grandkids will benefit from public lands as we do now.”

—Colorado Senator Michael Bennet ([link removed]) opposing the nomination of Steve Pearce as BLM director


** Picture This
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@mypubliclands ([link removed])
On the 5th day of Public Lands, BLM brings you...a thirsty moose from Idaho! 🎶

Moose, mule deer, elk, and pronghorn are now settling into their lower-elevation winter ranges after fall migration. These seasonal movements are essential for the health of Idaho’s ecosystems and offer great opportunities for winter wildlife viewing.

This time of year, extra caution on the roads is key:

🫎Animals are active at dawn, dusk, and nighttime—slow down and stay alert.
🫎 Watch for movement along roadsides, especially in known migration corridors.
🫎 If wildlife is on the road, brake firmly and stay in your lane.
🫎Pay attention to wildlife-crossing signs and areas with overpasses or underpasses.

Let’s work together to keep Idaho’s wildlife and drivers safe throughout the winter season. 🦌❄️

📸 Bruce Hallman

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