This news story is based on a press release from the National Park Service, which was issued on July 28, 2023. You can read the original release here. WASHINGTON — The Department of the Interior will mark the three-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) on August 4 (a fee-free day on public lands).
GAOA, a bipartisan investment, enhances visitor experiences, climate resilience, and creates jobs in national parks, wildlife refuges, recreation areas, and BIE-funded schools. GAOA projects have already supported 17,000 jobs annually, generating $1.8 billion for local economies. The celebration will include a month-long tour by Department leaders to visit GAOA projects on public lands.
Entrance fees at all lands managed by the Department will be waived on August 4. The GAOA established the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (GAOA LRF) to provide $1.6 billion annually for deferred maintenance and repairs at critical facilities. It also permanently funds the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) at $900 million yearly.
The Interior Department has funded 276 deferred maintenance projects across the nation since GAOA’s implementation in 2021. The law supports the next generation of workers through youth corps and Maintenance Action Teams. It upholds the commitment to Indigenous communities by improving BIE-funded schools. The efforts align with President Biden’s economic agenda, promoting job growth and combating climate change. Visit Interior’s GAOA website for more information.
National Parks List, Map, and Complete Guide (All 63 Parks + Downloadable List & Map)
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