Panorama of the blue ridge parkway with evergreen covered mountains

Great American Outdoors Act

The Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA, Act) is a historic investment in the protection and sustainment of our public lands and Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded schools. The Act established the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (LRF) to address overdue maintenance needs. GAOA also permanently authorized funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) — a separate fund aimed at safeguarding our natural areas and cultural heritage.

By addressing the maintenance backlog, we are ensuring that visitors and staff are safe and comfortable as they access our national parks, public lands and roads, national wildlife refuges, and BIE-funded schools. We’re excited about the important work the Interior Department and bureaus are planning and executing through the Great American Outdoors Act. We hope you’ll take the time to explore the projects we have featured on this site to see how this significant legislation is benefiting visitors and their communities across the country.
 

A flock of birds flying over water with snow covered mountains in the background
A flock of birds flying over water with snow covered mountains in the background

About

Learn more about the largest-ever investment in public lands, the Great American Outdoors Act, and the widespread impact it is having on visitors, local communities, and the natural landscape.
Read more
The Jefferson Monument with pink blooming cherry blossoms blooming in the foreground
The Jefferson Monument with pink blooming cherry blossoms blooming in the foreground

Projects

The Great American Outdoors Act is funding projects across the country that are repairing roads, buildings, trails, BIE-funded schools, and more on our public lands.
Read more
Workers completing repairs on the Punta Gorda Lighthouse, with blue sky and ocean in the background
Workers completing repairs on the Punta Gorda Lighthouse, with blue sky and ocean in the background

Deferred Maintenance and Repair

Learn about how the Great American Outdoors Act improves the Department of the Interior's asset management by addressing deferred maintenance and repair needs.
Read more
Red rock sandstone with trees and a small waterfall
Red rock sandstone with trees and a small waterfall

GAOA Resources

Explore GAOA websites from the land management agencies that receive project funding and learn how to find out about contracting opportunities.
Read more
DOI News
Department of the Interior bison seal set against green mountainous background.
President Biden’s Budget Invests $2.8 Billion to Support Economies, Outdoor Recreation and Access to Public Lands
External News
Seven people, one in park ranger uniform and six in office wear, break ground with shovels in forest
Deputy Secretary Beaudreau and Partners Highlight Great American Outdoors Act Success Story (www.nps.gov)
External News
View from the water of a large red and white building with red metal gazebo at the front.
Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration to begin $17.7 million infrastructure improvement project (www.nps.gov)