Fresh Tracks Weekly

Buy the Elk Conservation Stamp here (proceeds donated to RMEF) https://shopfreshtracks.com/products/2025-elk-conservation-stamp?srsltid=AfmBOorlsI5T-OHN5wvqK1ZU72s6EISgCuMItcxQQxYBMWOvkWb2fxjs In this episode, we sit down with Jesse DeVoe from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, to discuss an elk research project in Northwest Montana. Jesse shares insights into this large-scale collaborative effort to better understand local elk populations and looking into habitat and impacts from predators. News this week includes: -A Wildlife Migration License Plate Design Contest announced by TRCP and Montana FWP -A recent land conveyance in Alaska under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act -New data from a national survey on public attitudes toward hunting and shooting sports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we break down what’s in the “Big Beautiful Bill” and how it impacts hunters and public land users—even without the controversial land sale provision. We also look ahead to next week’s launch of Elk Week, where we’ll be rolling out elk-focused content daily. News Stories Covered: – Wall Street Journal Opinion Piece: The WSJ Editorial Board criticized the removal of the public land sale from the bill, backing false claims about affordability and land use. – Wyoming Corner Crossing Case: A new petition has been submitted to the U.S. Supreme Court. – BLM Wild Horse Roundup Blocked: The 10th Circuit Court halted a planned roundup of 3,600 feral horses in southern Wyoming due to insufficient explanation on ecological balance. – Backcountry Lake Contamination: A lake in the Wind River Range showed fecal contamination 384x over safe swimming levels. – Solar Farms and Wildlife Displacement: A new study tracks pronghorn movement around a Wyoming solar facility and reveals how habitat use changes after construction—even beyond the fenced area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fresh Tracks Weekly, we cover a major win for public land advocates: Senator Mike Lee was forced to removed the controversial public land sale language from the "Big Beautiful Bill." While it's a victory for now, Randy Newberg breaks down why this issue isn't going away and where to watch for future attempts to sell off public lands. We also cover several key conservation and public access updates: The EXPLORE Act has officially been implemented, expanding access to outdoor recreation, improving public land maps, and increasing coordination to combat invasive species. A collaborative project in Nevada brought volunteers and conservation groups together to install a new wildlife guzzler in Churchill County, providing critical water resources in desert habitat. The Department of Government Efficiency has canceled grants to the Recreational Boating and Fishing Foundation, raising concerns over the future of the "Take Me Fishing" program. Pheasants Forever has enrolled a new landowner into South Dakota’s PATH program, opening nearly 30,000 acres of high-quality habitat to public hunting and recreation. Pennsylvania is on the verge of lifting its longstanding ban on Sunday hunting, with HB1431 awaiting the governor’s signature. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Link to Mike Lee's updated language: https://www.hunttalk.com/attachments/lee-senr-06-24-2025-pdf.376000/ Call your Senators: (202) 224-3121 Email your Senators: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm Find and Contact your Representatives: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Call your Senators: (202) 224-3121 Email your Senators: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm Find and Contact your Representatives: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representativeBuy Arizona Bighorn Sheep Raffle Tickets: https://wildsheep.fanthem.io/give/sheep/online-raffles/bhs?referralCode=wsfweb Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Link to Mike Lee’s 69 page bill: https://www.energy.senate.gov/services/files/DF7B7FBE-9866-4B69-8ACA-C661A4F18096 Members on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee https://www.energy.senate.gov/members Capitol Switchboard: (202) 224-3121 Andrew McKean’s Outdoor Life Article https://www.outdoorlife.com/conservation/senate-proposes-selling-public-land/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Contact Mike Lee: https://www.lee.senate.gov/contact Contact your Senator: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htm Capitol Switchboard (202) 224-3121 This week, we're talking about recent changes to the federal budget reconciliation bill and what they mean for hunters and public land users. Some updates and news include: The Wyoming corner crossing case could be heading to the Supreme Court. A large-scale feral horse roundup is scheduled in Wyoming. Colorado Parks and Wildlife kills a wolf after repeated livestock attacks. Ohio Senate redirects wildlife funding from natural gas revenues. President Trump nominates Michael Boren for U.S. Forest Service Director. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Find your Representative: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative In this episode, we cover troubling developments in the latest budget reconciliation bill, including a proposed amendment that could lead to the sale of over 500,000 acres of public land and the formation of the new Public Lands Caucus. We also look at potential impacts on the USGS Cooperative Wildlife Research Units and changes to oil and gas royalty rates that could reduce federal revenue. But it’s not all bad news — we highlight exciting wildlife conservation projects from Arizona to California, including new elk crossings and Tule Elk restoration efforts. Tune in for Randy’s take on what all this means for public lands and conservation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Capitol switchboard number: (202) 224-3121. This week we’re taking a closer look at why states are legally allowed to discriminate against non-resident hunters. Randy joins to explain the legal and historical background of this system and what it could mean for the future of hunting access. We also cover some major news stories affecting public lands and hunters: A controversial budget amendment from Mark Amodei (NV) and Celeste Maloy (UT) could result in the sale of at least 11,000 acres of BLM and Forest Service land in Nevada and Utah. The amendment passed committee without public input. Cuts to key federal land and wildlife agencies are also in the proposed budget, including major reductions to the Forest Service, BLM, Fish and Wildlife Service, and more. These cuts could significantly impact habitat research and conservation efforts. In Colorado, the Attorney General clarified that corner crossing from federal land to federal land is legal—though not when it involves state land. We break down what that means for public land users. In California, a bill that would have allowed hounds to haze bears in urban-wildlife conflict zones failed by just one vote but may return next year. Stick around for the deep dive discussion on the legal standing of non-resident hunting restrictions and what it means for access across the U.S. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we bring you updates from across the West—even while Randy's out chasing turkeys! New Film "UNWIRED" – A must-watch on Wyoming pronghorn, GPS tracking, and how fencing is evolving for wildlife migration. https://thewyldlifefund.org/unwired/ Montana Legislative Wins – Two competing bills (HB 932 & SB 537) could shape the future of conservation funding from marijuana tax revenue. Moose & Sheep Tags – A new law allows FWP to raffle or auction high-demand tags. What does it mean for conservation groups and revenue? Montana expands its Block Management Program to improve public land access through private property. Wolf Conflicts in California – Sierra County is “under siege” after 18 confirmed wolf-related attacks. What’s going on? Public Land for Housing? – A new federal task force is considering selling or leasing public land for housing. We discuss the implications. Oklahoma Restricts Non-Resident Hunters – A new law introduces a lottery system for public land access—targeting overcrowding. AmeriCorps Funding Cut – $400M in grants canceled, and 85% of staff put on leave. 25 states are suing the Trump administration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we're switching gears from our usual deep dives into public land policy and instead catching up with the crew to talk about springtime plans and upcoming hunts. But don’t worry—we still have the news segment covering some updates on wildlife and conservation across the country. In this episode: Montana Wildlife Crossings – A new bill is one step away from becoming law, creating a Wildlife Highway Crossing Account. We look at how similar programs in Wyoming and Nevada have proven to save both wildlife and money. Closures by the Army Corps of Engineers – Staffing shortages are leading to campground and visitor center closures across several western states. We discuss the impacts. Fishing Deregulation – A new executive order is aimed at loosening restrictions on commercial fishing. Supporters say it’ll help the industry—critics warn of long-term consequences to ocean health. Interior Department Strategic Plan Leaked – A leaked draft shows a strong push for resource extraction and land development, with some mixed messaging on grazing and species protection. Alabama Cervid Bills – Two bills are moving forward that would severely restrict the state’s ability to regulate the spread of chronic wasting disease (CWD). We break down the potential implications for wild deer populations. Grizzlies in California? – A new study says the Golden State could support over 1,000 grizzly bears. We take a look at the proposed recovery zones and the big question: Will California actually follow through? And to wrap it up, we’re talking spring hunts—what’s on the calendar and what the crew’s excited about. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we're exploring our ideas for improving government efficiency in the outdoors – D.O.G.E. style. Randy shares some ideas on how the government could improve its functionality when managing public lands and questions why these efficiency tools aren’t already being used. But first, a few news stories: Mossy Oak Turkey Stamp Learn how you can support wild turkey conservation through Mossy Oak’s Conservation Stamp—100% of proceeds go to turkey research that benefits populations nationwide. Controversial Conservation Easement Bill Two Congresswomen introduced a bill that limits landowner options under the guise of increasing rights. We break down why this bill could hurt long-term land conservation efforts. Louisiana Land Sale Scandal A shady land deal in Louisiana potentially robbed the public of river access and millions in value, raising questions about state-level land transfers and government accountability. Public Lands Rule Likely Death The Public Lands Rule—meant to elevate conservation to the same level as extractive uses—may be on the chopping block, without a chance for public comment, despite overwhelming support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on Fresh Tracks Weekly, we follow up on last week’s budget reconciliation deep dive and talk about the push to sell off public lands. A failed amendment revealed which lawmakers are backing this controversial move — and who’s fighting to keep our lands public. We also cover the latest outdoor and conservation news: The U.S. Supreme Court weighs in on federal employee firings, impacting 16,000 workers. How the loss of key NOAA and wildlife biologists could derail salmon and grizzly bear recovery. New 2024 Chronic Wasting Disease data from Wyoming shows concerning spread in deer and elk populations. After a 9-year legal fight, 50,000 acres of public land in Colorado are now open to the public. “Freedom Cities” and what they could mean for over 500,000 acres of BLM land in Nevada. Plus, one Idaho congressman makes a surprising move to protect public lands. Dive in, stay informed, and join the conversation to help keep public lands in public hands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Randy checks in from Washington D.C. where he’s meeting with lawmakers and staffers to get the latest on public land policy—and sound the alarm on new efforts to sell off public lands. With major decisions looming, we break down what’s at stake and how it could impact access and conservation across the country. We also cover a wide range of wildlife and land management stories from around the West: 🦌 Washington State bans baiting for big game hunting and tightens rules to combat Chronic Wasting Disease. 🐏 Montana’s famed Missouri Breaks sheep unit is closed after a concerning population crash. 🐺 New Mexico declares a state of emergency over Mexican gray wolves after rising livestock losses. 🎣 Great Lakes Fishery at risk after key Sea Lamprey control workers were illegally fired—but now reinstated. 🏞️ Wyoming conservation easement funding frozen—jeopardizing protection of critical migration corridors. 🏘️ Nevada eyes BLM land for affordable housing amid skyrocketing demand and limited space. Stick around for the deeper dive where Randy breaks down the latest from Capitol Hill and what it all means for our public lands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we have Jared Frasier from what was previously 2% For Conservation. They are relaunching as Fish and Wildlife Volunteers, and Jared explains why the relaunch was necessary and how businesses and individuals can get involved. A few news stories also include. A few weeks ago, the Alaska state supreme court ruled that the Department of Game and Fish needed to halt its intensive predator management program, claiming it was unconstitutional. In Montana, a significant amendment to the water rights bill would have allowed sales of isolated state land within the state. Congressman Jeff Hurd has introduced the “Productive Public Lands Act,” which aims to reverse decisions made on Bureau of Land Management resource management plans in recent years for multiple areas within Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Oregon. A former Wyoming Game warden and Game and Fish director will likely be the new director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are discussing the recent announcement from the Department of Interior to use Federal Land to help with the Housing Affordability crisis. Also, some news stories from the week include Big news for corner crossing in multiple states. The U.S. 10 Circuit Court of Appeals upheld the ruling for the four hunters sued by a private landowner for corner crossing in Wyoming. Department of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum recently announced plans to open more of Alaska to oil and gas leasing. In Idaho, the state senate has called for the state to take over control of the Camas National Wildlife Refuge from the federal government. Montana re-introduced a Joint Resolution in which they want to make a statement that Montana supports Utah's claim that federal ownership of public lands is unconstitutional. A press release from the U.S. Department of Interior this week details a recent auction in which the Bureau of Land Management sold off $16.5 million worth of land in the Las Vegas area. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we are discussing the land and water conservation fund, how it’s one of the greatest conservation tools we have, and how, with all the chaos of trying to pass a budget, some LWCF projects could fall through the cracks if Congress doesn’t release funds. Some news stories also include. In Colorado, several ranchers were granted compensation for damages to their livestock herds caused by newly reintroduced wolves, which used up almost the entire wolf damage budget. In Wyoming, black-footed ferrets face a challenging year ahead as key employees have been fired and funding frozen from the Department of Government Efficiency efforts. Andrew McKean wrote an article summarizing some of the recent turmoil within federal agencies, which gives insight into what conservation might look like over the next four years. In Montana, the legislature is halfway through with some interesting things coming out of the woodwork. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re discussing how a significant amount of Bureau of Land Management land has already been identified as suitable for disposal and would not require Congressional approval to sell. There is still much uncertainty about the status of the federal employees who were fired in the last month. A judge did, however, rule that the Office of Personnel Management should rescind the memos that fired certain employees. The Voluntary Public Access Improvement Act was recently introduced in the U.S. Senate. It would reauthorize and fund the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program at three times the current rate. We also cover various state legislation that could impact hunting, fishing, or public land in your state. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re discussing the drastic changes we’ve seen over the last month within our federal agencies and how thousands of people have been fired. Randy details his idea of Government Efficiency. A few news stories are also included. A Montana bill has been introduced that would take money generated from the tax on marijuana that currently goes towards funding wildlife habitats, parks, and non-game wildlife and re-direct it to the general fund and various marijuana addiction and prevention accounts. Another interesting bill in Montana would allow Fish Wildlife and Parks to compensate landowners for allowing access through their property to hunt inaccessible public land. In Wyoming, even more elk have been found dead from chronic wasting disease at one of the state-run feed-grounds. In Colorado, House Bill 25-1133 would prohibit 18 - to 20-year-olds from purchasing ammunition. This follows 2023 legislation prohibiting 18-20-year-olds from purchasing semi-auto rifles and shotguns. In Alaska, the Governor introduced legislation, Senate Bill 105, that creates opportunities for residents to purchase or lease state land for cabin sites. If you’re watching this video right now. Public testimony is being heard in the Senate Resources Committee right now. In Kentucky, Senate Bill 89 would change how they define water within the state, abandoning its definition in exchange for the federal definition of navigable waters, which removes protections for wetlands, headwaters, and groundwater. In Indiana, House Bill 1447 would restrict logging and forest management within particular state forests. In Washington, House Bill 1775 would phase out and ultimately ban fur farming within the state. That bill narrowly passed out of committee and is moving forward. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Fresh Tracks Weekly, we take a deep dive into Alaska’s board of game with Jim Baichtal.   Then, we dive into Colorado's controversial HB 1258, which could shift wildlife management from mandatory hunting and fishing to optional, opening the door for litigation. We also cover Colorado's successful bighorn sheep translocation project, funded by hunters, and discuss concerning CWD cases in Wyoming's elk feed grounds. Plus, Idaho announces changes to non-resident tag systems and mule deer conservation efforts, while Colorado prepares for big changes to its tag draw system by 2028. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices