- Details
- By Native News Online Staff
Today, April 19, the Department of the Interior announced a finalized strategy to guide its management of public lands.
The Public Lands Rule emphasizes the use of science and data, including Indigenous Knowledge, to guide balanced decision-making, according to the Department of the Interior. The rule applies the existing fundamentals of land health across BLM programs, establishes restoration and mitigation leases, and clarifies practices to designate and protect areas of critical concern.
The final rule clarifies and refines concepts first proposed in April 2023. The Bureau of Land Management received and considered over 200,000 comments on the proposed rule from individuals, state, tribal and local governments, which were incorporated into the final rule.
Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland said the new rule helps to restore the balance to public lands for generations to come.
John Podesta, the Senior Advisor to the President for International Climate Policy, echoed her statement.
“America’s public lands are our national treasures and need to be managed and made resilient for future generations of Americans,” said Podesta in a statement. “Today’s final rule from the Department of the Interior is a huge win for ensuring balance on our public lands, helping them withstand the challenges of climate change and environmental threats like invasive species, and making sure they continue to provide services to the American people for decades to come.”
More Stories Like This
'Misguided': Alaska Native Orgs, Senator Lisa Murkowski Decry Trump’s Denali MoveTohono O’odham Nation signs co-stewardship with BLM over sacred lands
Reaction to Trump's "Putting People Over Fish" Executive Order
Court of Appeals hears arguments against Line 5 tunnel project
CTUIR, Army Corps Sign Historic Agreement to Remove Fish Barriers on Mill Creek
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Our mission draws from the warrior spirit that has sustained Indigenous peoples for generations — the same spirit that drives us to stand guard over tribal rights through relentless investigation and fearless reporting.
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
