Shame on all the would-be public land sellouts.

By Kirk Deeter

I have but one thing to say to anyone who thinks it’s a good idea to sell off America’s public lands.

You should be ashamed of yourself.

Ashamed because there are literally millions of others in this country who take great pride in owning our public lands, and you apparently don’t want to factor in their opinions.

Ashamed because you should know better—divestiture of public lands will not be an economic windfall, and anyone with true insight on the issue knows that, plain as day.

Ashamed because you’re turning your back on all of those who actually appreciate walking on dirt, from anglers, to hunters, bird watchers, hikers, bikers, campers, and so many more.

Ashamed because you’re willing to sell out what has been an American birthright for ages—something that has been, and still is—the envy of people throughout the world.

It’s just not right, that some politician(s) can ram a flawed notion down the throats of millions of people and expect us to live with it.

Maybe you’re a wealthy landowner, and you want to sell your spread for development and make a pretty penny as a result. Fine. It is what it is. That’s your land, and your decision, and you’re certainly entitled to that. In a perfect world, you might consider having the grace and foresight to deed that land to the public trust, as did the ultra-wealthy generations ago, like the Harrimans, the Rockefellers, and many others.

You might take time to realize that the notion of some young person who has never walked on anything other than pavement their entire life, might have an opportunity to venture into the wild and appreciate the raw, sheer beauty Nature affords.

You might think that there are many creatures that depend on the habitat our public lands provide. Native and wild fish… vast populations of elk, moose, mule deer, bears and others.

You might just care that there’s a young woman or man, who hasn’t even been born yet, who could someday venture into the open spaces of America’s public lands, take a deep breath of fresh air, and think, “I’m proud to be an American, because this is mine.”

If we let go of our public lands, they’ll be gone forever.

As such, I cannot help but wonder, when it comes to the sellouts, what’s in it for you? Who have you sold your soul to? When did you stop believing in this fundamentally American ideal?

If you want to get rid of our public lands, fine, that’s your opinion and you’re entitled to it. Put your actions where your mouth is and stop fishing, hunting, hiking, biking and otherwise on them, right now. You won’t be missed.

On the other hand, if you truly give a rip about this issue, it’s time to stop talking and start acting. Draw a line in the sand. Defend it. A hashtag isn’t good enough. Flood the lines. Reach out to your representatives. Involve your friends and family.

I’m really worried about all of this, this time around, and you should be also.

Those of you who aren’t at all concerned… well, you should be ashamed of yourselves.