Trump administration proposes selling federal land to states and tribes

President Donald Trump's administration has proposed a plan to sell or transfer federally managed land to states, tribal governments, and local authorities. The Department of the Interior released a five-year strategic plan outlining the agency's priorities for fiscal years 2026 through 2030, which includes reducing the federal land estate and offering certain properties for purchase.

The administration argues that disposing of less significant lands would allow for focusing resources on more important properties. However, the specific properties and geographical scope of potential sales remain undisclosed, and the definition of "nationally significant" properties is unclear. The proposal has drawn criticism from conservationists and outdoor recreation groups, who fear that transferring federal properties to state authorities could restrict public access.

The plan also includes proposals for domestic energy production, critical mineral development, artificial intelligence infrastructure, and a major restructuring of federal wildfire management. These changes could have significant implications for land management and access, and will likely require congressional approval to be implemented.