January 13, 2026 – Today, the National Deer Association expresses its appreciation for Secretary Doug Burgum’s Order expanding opportunities to hunt and fish across our entire federal public land estate.
“Hunters are conservationists at heart and are the best tool we have for wildlife management,” said Nick Pinizzotto, CEO of the National Deer Association. “In many parts of the country, overabundant deer herds place significant strain on habitat and other wildlife species. Providing opportunities for hunters to participate in population management is essential to maintaining healthy ecosystems while delivering tangible benefits to local communities. NDA specifically appreciates the Department’s voluntary approach to the use of non-lead ammunition and promotion of informed choices by our country’s many hunters and anglers.
“By ensuring hunting access to appropriate lands across the federal estate, DOI is providing opportunities for science-based strategies to be used in managing our nation’s wildlife,” said Pinizzotto. “Scientifically regulated hunting allows the public to actively participate in wildlife management by harvesting wild, healthy meat. Hunters remain one of the most effective tools for managing wildlife populations, particularly in maintaining balanced deer herds that support healthy habitats. Deer hunters help manage populations while filling their own freezers or donating venison to local food banks and venison donation programs, directly supporting families in need and helping combat food insecurity.”
NDA looks forward to continuing to work with all federal agencies to improve access to public lands while ensuring wildlife management decisions remain grounded in sound science and hunter safety.
View Secretarial Order 3447, Expanding Hunting and Fishing Access, Removing Unnecessary Barriers, and Ensuring Consistency Across the Department of the Interior Lands and Waters.
TODAY: @Interior released Secretary’s Order 3447 to expand hunting and fishing access on America’s public lands. We’re cutting barriers and streamlining regulations so Americans have the access they deserve on our public lands.
— Secretary Doug Burgum (@SecretaryBurgum) January 13, 2026
Learn more here⬇️https://t.co/SeHUTEf461