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SW Arkansas Times

Wednesday, December 25, 2024

Senate approves bipartisan act to expand outdoor recreation opportunities

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U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman Representing the 4th District of Arkansas | Facebook Website

U.S. Rep. Bruce Westerman Representing the 4th District of Arkansas | Facebook Website

The U.S. Senate has approved the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Act (EXPLORE), a bipartisan initiative spearheaded by Congressman Bruce Westerman of Arkansas. The legislation aims to enhance access to outdoor recreation across the nation.

Congressman Westerman expressed his enthusiasm for the bill, particularly highlighting its impact on Arkansas. "As an avid outdoorsman, there’s nothing better than exploring and taking in all that the Natural State has to offer," he stated. He emphasized that the EXPLORE Act is designed to improve access and opportunities for outdoor activities on public lands and waters.

A significant aspect of the bill is the reopening of overnight camping at Albert Pike Recreation Area (APRA) in Arkansas, which had been suspended following a tragic flash flood in 2010. Westerman noted, "The Fourth District of Arkansas wins with the included provision of reopening overnight camping access at the Albert Pike Recreation Area." He added that this would allow for safe and responsible usage moving forward.

The EXPLORE Act also seeks to modernize visitor experiences, address infrastructure issues, and streamline permitting processes for small businesses reliant on public land access. "Overall, the EXPLORE Act will modernize the visitor experience," Westerman said, noting its benefits for Americans nationwide.

The bill includes provisions to safely reopen existing campsites outside flood-prone areas within 30 days of enactment and establish new sites over two years. It also focuses on improving technology for visitors, protecting rock climbing locations, creating bike trails, restoring campgrounds, and supporting gateway communities.

More than 100 outdoor organizations back the EXPLORE Act, including several from Arkansas advocating various recreational activities.

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