Gates of the Arctic rule would allow subsistence ORV use by Anaktuvuk Pass residents

What is proposed

The proposed rule (new 36 CFR 13.1005) would recognize off-road vehicles as a means of surface transportation traditionally employed for subsistence and allow local rural residents of Anaktuvuk Pass to use them for subsistence in Gates of the Arctic; off-road driving by anyone else stays prohibited and recreational ORV use is expressly not authorized. The Superintendent could impose closures or other mitigation only on clear evidence of a direct significant impact, through a written determination, at least 30 days' Federal Register notice, and consultation including a public hearing, with emergency measures expiring after 45 days.

The agency's title for this proposal is "Gates of the Arctic National Park and Preserve; Use of Off-Road Vehicles for Subsistence Purposes by Residents of Anaktuvuk Pass".

How to comment

The National Park Service accepts public comments on this proposal through December 18, 2026. The comment period opened October 19, 2026. Use the Take Action button to get the points to make, a comment starter you can put in your own words, and the link to the agency's official comment form.

Points to make in your comment

Support codifying that off-road vehicles are a traditionally employed means of access under ANILCA section 811(b), replacing the earlier management plan statement that the use was not allowed.
Support the standard that any closure or restriction must rest on clear evidence and specific, articulable facts, use the least restrictive measure, and not be based on remote or speculative impacts, generalized climatic patterns, or modeling.
Support the required 30-day Federal Register notice, consultation and public hearing before restrictions, and the 45-day limit on emergency measures.

Topics

OHV / Motorized Access
Hunting and Fishing

Official sources

Official project page (www.federalregister.gov)
Proposal documents (www.govinfo.gov)
Official comment form (www.regulations.gov)