Many anglers and hunters have been weighing in in opposition to proposals to sell or dispose of our federal public lands.  Recently, Rep. Jason Chaffetz (R-UT) proposed legislation that would have sold off some 3 million acres of federal lands including more than 90,000 in Colorado – though we never saw a final listing of exactly which lands were going to be sold.  In response to the overwhelming voice of sportsmen speaking out against this type of measure, here is what Rep. Chaffetz announced via his Instagram account: "I am withdrawing HR 621. I'm a proud gun owner, hunter and love our public lands. The bill would have disposed of small parcels of lands Pres. Clinton identified as serving no public purpose but groups I support and care about fear it sends the wrong message. The bill was originally introduced several years ago. I look forward to working with you. I hear you and HR 621 dies tomorrow."

The voice of hunters and anglers is strong, and we CAN make a difference when we speak out.  To all of you who have helped speak out on this issue, recently and throughout the past few years, thank you - and keep it up!

“We are pleased to hear Representative Chaffetz has changed course on his effort to sell public lands and we thank him for listening to the voices of sportsmen and women. Across the country we have seen a groundswell of support for our public lands,” Trout Unlimited CEO Chris Wood said. “Selling them off cheats not only this generation but all those who follow.”

We can still make our voices heard and sign the petition that we want to keep America's public lands in public hands!