Celebrating the Department of the Interior: A Legacy of Stewardship and Service

Today marks the anniversary of one of the most consequential agencies in the federal government: the U.S. Department of the Interior. Established in 1849, the Department of the Interior (DOI) was a groundbreaking addition to the federal government, tasked with managing the nation’s vast public lands and natural resources. Over 175 years later, the DOI remains at the heart of conservation, land management, and stewardship of America’s national parks, wildlife, and indigenous affairs.

While its mission has evolved, the DOI remains vital in protecting America’s environmental and cultural heritage. Yet, its role has often been threatened by political forces seeking to weaken environmental protections and prioritize corporate interests over public lands. The Trump administration’s efforts to undermine and gut agencies like the DOI serve as a cautionary tale about what happens when we neglect stewardship in favor of short-term exploitation.

Today, we celebrate the Department of the Interior’s enduring legacy and explore why its work is more important than ever.

The Founding of the Department of the Interior: A Landmark Moment

The DOI was officially established on March 3, 1849, just days before President James K. Polk left office. Before its creation, many of the responsibilities that the department would assume—such as managing public lands, overseeing Indian affairs, and handling patents—were scattered across various government agencies.

The creation of the DOI was precedent-setting because it consolidated these diverse responsibilities under one umbrella, making it one of the first federal agencies dedicated to domestic affairs. At the time, the U.S. was expanding westward at an unprecedented rate, and the federal government needed a centralized department to oversee the massive tracts of land being acquired, settled, and developed.

While its early years were marred by controversial policies, particularly in relation to Native American displacement, the DOI gradually evolved into a force for conservation and responsible land management. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a cornerstone of America’s environmental policy, a role that continues to this day.

The Mission of the Department of the Interior

The DOI’s mission is to “protect and manage the nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage; provide scientific and other information about those resources; and honor its trust responsibilities to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and affiliated island communities.”

In simpler terms, the DOI is responsible for:

• Managing over 480 million acres of public land—about 20% of the U.S. landmass
• Overseeing the nation’s national parks, wildlife refuges, and historic sites
• Conducting scientific research on geology, water, and natural disasters
• Managing water resources, including major river systems
• Upholding the U.S. government’s responsibilities to Native American tribes
• Regulating offshore energy development

From preserving breathtaking landscapes like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon to ensuring the responsible use of water and mineral resources, the DOI plays a crucial role in both environmental protection and economic development.

Agencies Under the Department of the Interior

The DOI is home to several agencies that directly impact the environment, public lands, and Native American affairs. Among the most well-known:

National Park Service (NPS)

Created in 1916, the National Park Service (NPS) manages over 400 national parks, monuments, and historic sites across the U.S. These parks are not just beautiful landscapes; they are living history, preserving America’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Without the NPS, iconic places like Yosemite, the Everglades, and Mount Rainier would be vulnerable to exploitation and destruction.

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

Founded in 1879, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides critical scientific research on geology, water resources, and natural disasters. USGS scientists help us understand earthquakes, volcanoes, climate change, and water scarcity—issues that are becoming increasingly urgent as global temperatures rise.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees 245 million acres of public lands, primarily in the western U.S. The BLM’s role is controversial because it balances conservation with resource extraction, including grazing, logging, and oil and gas leasing. Under strong leadership, the BLM can be a force for sustainable land use, but under industry-friendly administrations, it has been used to sell off public lands to the highest bidder.

Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) upholds the federal government’s legal and treaty obligations to Native American tribes. While its history is fraught with injustices, today the BIA plays a crucial role in supporting tribal sovereignty, economic development, and self-determination.

These agencies and others like the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the Bureau of Reclamation are essential to managing America’s natural and cultural resources.

The Importance of the DOI Today

The DOI’s work is more critical than ever in the face of climate change, biodiversity loss, and growing pressure on public lands. The department helps protect the country’s fragile ecosystems, from the Arctic tundra to the deserts of the Southwest. It also plays a key role in managing water supplies, an increasingly contentious issue in drought-prone states like California and Arizona.

Furthermore, the DOI serves as a vital counterbalance to industries that seek to exploit public lands for profit. Whether it’s oil drilling in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge or logging on forest lands, the DOI’s leadership can determine whether these lands are protected or sacrificed to corporate interests.

The Trump Administration’s Attack on the DOI

The Trump administration waged an unprecedented assault on the DOI and its mission. Under Trump’s Interior Secretaries—first Ryan Zinke, then David Bernhardt, a former oil lobbyist, and now Doug Burgum the department is being hollowed out and redirected to serve private interests.

Some of the most damaging policies included:

• Shrinking national monuments: Trump reduced the size of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments by millions of acres, opening them to mining and drilling.
• Prioritizing oil and gas leasing: The BLM ramped up leasing public lands for oil and gas drilling, often at rock-bottom prices.
• Weakening protections for endangered species: The Fish and Wildlife Service was pressured to delay or roll back protections for species like the sage grouse, which stood in the way of energy development.
• Relocating BLM headquarters: In a move that gutted the agency, Trump’s DOI relocated the Bureau of Land Management’s headquarters to Colorado, prompting an exodus of experienced staff.
• Firing of rangers and other personnel: The firing of thousands of DOI employees, making it harder for the federal government to fight wildfires, stop poaching, mitigate climate change, and manage recreation.
• Selling of public lands and resources: Trump orders sites like the Presidio to justify its existence and liquidate public lands and facilities. 

These attacks weren’t just bad for the environment; they are bad for democracy, as they prioritized private profits over public interests.

A Future Built on Conservation and Stewardship

The Department of the Interior represents the best of American values: stewardship, conservation, and a commitment to future generations. Every time we visit a national park, see a bald eagle in the wild, or drink clean water from a protected watershed, we are benefiting from the DOI’s work.

Yet, the threats remain. Special interests and anti-environment politicians continue to push for drilling, logging, and deregulation. That’s why we must remain vigilant and support leaders who understand the importance of conservation and public lands.

As we celebrate the DOI’s March 3 anniversary, let’s recognize its profound contributions—and recommit ourselves to protecting it from those who would tear it down. The future of our parks, wildlife, and public lands depends on it.

As always, here are five simple things concerned citizens can do to voice opposition to executive overreach. 

Contact Your Elected Officials: Write letters, send emails, or call your local representatives to express your concerns about executive overreach and request accountability.

Participate in Peaceful Protests: Join or organize demonstrations and rallies to publicly show your opposition and rally like-minded citizens.

Leverage Social Media Platforms: Use online platforms to share your views, engage in discussions, and mobilize support around the issue.

Support Advocacy and Legal Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with groups that work on government accountability and constitutional rights to help push for legal challenges and reforms.

Engage in Public Forums and Community Meetings: Attend town halls or organize community discussions to debate these issues and ensure public voices are heard at all levels of government.

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning conservationist and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

Celebrating 175 Years of Preserving America's Natural Heritage: The Department of Interior's Enduring Legacy

DOI Logo

On March 3, 2024, the Department of the Interior marks a momentous occasion as it celebrates its
175th birthday. This milestone not only commemorates a long and storied history but also highlights the crucial role the department has played in shaping the conservation and management of America's natural landscapes. As we reflect on its legacy, it becomes increasingly evident that the Department of the Interior's mission is more vital than ever.

Established in 1849, the Department of the Interior oversees the nation's internal affairs, including managing public lands, forests, parks, and wildlife refuges. Since its inception, the department has been entrusted with the monumental responsibility of preserving and protecting America's natural heritage for future generations.

The Department of the Interior has achieved numerous conservation and environmental stewardship milestones throughout its history. One of its most iconic achievements is the creation of the National Park System, which began with the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872. Over the years, this system has expanded to over 400 sites, preserving some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures.

In addition to the National Park System, the Department of the Interior has played a pivotal role in the conservation of wildlife and habitats through initiatives such as the Endangered Species Act and the establishment of wildlife refuges. These efforts have helped protect countless species from extinction and ensure our ecosystems' continued health and diversity.

The Department of the Interior faces new challenges and threats to America's natural landscapes as we look to the future. Climate change, habitat loss, and unsustainable development pose significant risks to our public lands' biodiversity and ecological integrity. Growing demands for water, minerals, and energy resources also require careful management to balance conservation with responsible development.

In the face of these challenges, the federal management of public lands, forests, parks, and wildlife refuges has never been more important. The Department of the Interior is a guardian of our natural heritage, ensuring these precious landscapes are protected and preserved for future generations.

The ability of the federal government to bring a national perspective to resource management challenges cannot be overstated. While state and local entities play vital roles in conservation efforts, many environmental issues extend beyond regional boundaries, necessitating a cohesive, nationwide approach. From mitigating the impacts of climate change to ensuring the sustainable use of water resources, federal agencies possess the authority and expertise to address complex ecological challenges on a national scale.

Moreover, federal management brings significant financial resources that can be mobilized to support conservation initiatives nationwide. Federal agencies can invest in acquiring, restoring, and maintaining public lands and waters through programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the National Park Service's budget. These funds are essential for protecting critical habitats, expanding access to outdoor recreation, and preserving cultural and historical sites for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

In addition to financial resources, federal agencies boast unmatched technical skills and expertise in natural resource management. From conducting scientific research and monitoring to implementing innovative conservation strategies, federal scientists and land managers are at the forefront of efforts to protect and restore America's natural landscapes. Whether managing forests to enhance resilience to wildfires or restoring wetlands to improve water quality, federal agencies possess the knowledge and capacity to address complex ecological challenges.

Moreover, the department promotes outdoor recreation, environmental education, and scientific research, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of our natural world. Investing in conservation and sustainable management practices can safeguard our public lands and ensure that they remain vibrant and accessible for all to experience.

However, the most important aspect of federal management of the public domain is that it fosters among Americans one of the last places that creates a sense of common ground and national identity. These shared spaces serve as a testament to our nation's natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering opportunities for people from all walks of life to come together and connect with something larger than themselves. By promoting access to these treasured landscapes and encouraging stewardship, federal agencies help cultivate a shared sacred mission to protect our world for current and, perhaps more importantly, future generations.

As we celebrate the Department of the Interior's 175th birthday, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving America's natural heritage. By working together to address the challenges ahead, we can ensure that future generations inherit a world rich in natural beauty, biodiversity, and ecological abundance. Happy birthday to the Department of the Interior, and here's to many more years of conservation success!

###

Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

National Parks' Ultimate Purpose? Creating Common Ground

U.S. Department of the Interior Secretary Deb Haaland recently visited Yellowstone to talk about park
funding and the impact record visitation is having on resources and experiences.

Administration after administration is to be commended for continued support of national park funding, however its time to seize the opportunity to think bigger and begin nationwide conversations about both the national parks’ and the country’s future.

Safe places for conversations about our national purpose are needed now more than ever. These conversations could focus on where and what type of new parks should be established (including large natural parks), how national parks can help mitigate impacts from issues such as climate change, forest fires, drought, species loss, etc. They can also identify ways the parks can help tell a more inclusive story of our country. But perhaps most important, these conversations can identify opportunities where parks provide Americans with places to find common ground, share common experiences, and work toward common goals.

It's understandable administrations and members of congress advocate for funding for new trails, visitor centers, and campgrounds. It's a tried and true way to show the public one cares about parks. Supporting funding for national parks is as American as apple pie, baseball, and Chevrolet.

But advocating for more funding isn’t inspiring. It doesn’t touch upon those deep mythic themes of purpose that run through the hearts of many Americans and why many people go to the parks in the first place.

In my many years as a ranger, I met tens of thousands of visitors. I found that many come to the parks for that iconic once in a lifetime vacation, the chance to escape the stress and strain of everyday life. Yet many also come for the opportunity to connect and be part of something bigger than themselves. Americans come to parks for example to see the nation’s last free ranging bison herd, or the desk where Gen. Grant accepted Gen. Lee’s surrender, or the opportunity to stand for a day in the shadow of a tree that has stood in the same spot for a million days, or visit the camps where Japanese Americans were forcibly interned during World War II. The sites, ideas, values, and resources protected in our national parks allow all Americans to contemplate and be part of the larger experience that is the American experiment.

America needs agencies like the Park Service to not only provide shinny new visitors centers, but also start these conversations if for no other reason so that future Americans also have parks to enjoy, as well as the opportunity to be part of something bigger too.

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Sean Smith is an award winning conservationist and author. He is a former National Park Ranger at Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades. He is a TEDx speaker, and private pilot. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1989 with a degree in Political Science. He got his master's in Natural Resources Management from Central Washington University in 1996. He currently runs Washington State's efforts to reduce and eliminate toxic chemicals from consumer products and serves as the Mayor Pro Tem of Covington.

He has been writing stories and books since he was a child and currently writes national park thrillers from the shadow of Mount Rainier.  All his novels can be found here: Mr. Sean D Smith