Federal Policy Updates Every Outdoor Recreation Nonprofit Needs to Know
Big changes are happening at the federal level—and they will likely affect outdoor recreation nonprofits, public lands advocates, and community groups across the country.
There’s good news, and there’s bad news. We started with the bad news, so make sure you read to the end of this article to catch the good news too!
Here’s what’s happening, why it matters, and what your organization should be thinking about.
1. Supreme Court Ruling Puts National Parks—and Jobs—at Risk
The Supreme Court recently allowed an executive order to move forward that could trigger large-scale layoffs across federal agencies—including the already strained National Park Service.
What This Means—According to National Parks Conservation Association:
The injunction’s removal "clears the way" for potential mass layoffs at NPS.
With around 24% of permanent park staff already gone, even more steep cuts could jeopardize visitor services, maintenance, wildfire response, and other critical programs.
Organizations like NPCA, CPANP, ANPR, and PEER are warning that further staffing reductions "jeopardize the Park Service's core mission."
Source: National Parks Conservation Association
2. “Make America Beautiful Again” Commission—What It Means for Outdoor Orgs
On July 3, 2024, President Trump signed an executive order establishing a new federal commission under the banner of “Make America Beautiful Again.” Its focus:
Expanding outdoor recreation and conservation efforts
Improving visitor access and recreational infrastructure
Promoting public land use through volunteerism and partnerships
What’s missing? Any mention of climate change or environmental justice.
Why this matters:
Nonprofits focused on recreation access—like trails, rivers, and parks—could benefit from new funding and infrastructure programs under this commission.
However, projects tied to climate resilience or environmental advocacy may not align with the commission’s priorities.
Your nonprofit may need to carefully frame project proposals around recreation, stewardship, or visitor experience to secure federal partnerships or funding.
Sources: Ballotpedia, Washington Post, White House Executive Orders
3. National Park Fee Changes & DEI Policy Rollback
In a separate order signed the same day, Trump:
Increased entry fees for international visitors to U.S. national parks and public lands.
Lowered fees for U.S. residents in an effort to boost domestic recreation access.
Rescinded a 2017 National Park Service memo that supported diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in public lands management.
Why this matters:
Nonprofits focused on cultural equity, youth access, or community partnerships may face challenges as DEI programs lose formal federal backing.
However, some organizations could benefit from the new fee structure, which may drive more U.S. resident park visits and potentially increase grant funding tied to recreation access.
Sources: White House Executive Orders, Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle, Reuters
Takeaways & Recommendations for Outdoor Nonprofits
These changes will affect different organizations in different ways—but here are clear actions you can take now:
Stay Alert
Federal rules are changing rapidly. Sign up for policy updates from groups like the National Parks Conservation Association and the Outdoor Alliance.
Reassess Funding Strategy
If your work touches recreation access, infrastructure, or volunteer stewardship, explore whether the “Make America Beautiful Again” initiative could support your projects.
Review Program Messaging
For now, federally funded projects may need to focus more on recreation, access, or economic benefits—not climate advocacy or equity goals—when seeking government support.
Strengthen Local Partnerships
With DEI rollbacks and legal shifts, local collaborations and grassroots funding will be more important than ever to advance equity and inclusion on public lands.
Communicate With Your Community
Keep your supporters informed about how these changes affect your work. Transparency builds trust—and might even attract new donors.
Bonus Resource: Stay Ahead of Policy Shifts with the Outdoor Funding Collective
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all these policy changes, you’re not alone. That’s exactly why I created the Outdoor Funding Collective—a membership community designed to save outdoor and recreation nonprofits time by curating relevant grants, funding opportunities, and resources.
Inside the Collective, you’ll find:
New grants added every week—including ones tied to recreation access, infrastructure, and federal programs like “Make America Beautiful Again.”
A growing archive of funding opportunities that may help your organization adjust to these policy changes.
Monthly LIVE group coaching calls with Beckie to help you navigate shifts in funding, regulations, and donor priorities.
Peace of mind knowing exactly what grant funding exists for your organization.
If you’re a nonprofit working in outdoor recreation, conservation, or community access to public lands, now is the time to get strategic with your funding plans.
Want expert guidance on improving your grant strategy? At Beckie Irvin Consulting and Research, LLC, we help grassroots nonprofits develop stronger grant proposals, research funding opportunities, and build sustainable fundraising plans. Book a consultation today, and let’s get your organization the funding it deserves!
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