SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

On January 20, 2021, President Joseph R. Biden issued Executive Order 13985 on Advancing Racial Equity and Support for Underserved Communities through the Federal Government. In response to Executive Order 13985, DOI is consulting with members of communities who have been historically underrepresented in the Federal Government and underserved by, or subject to discrimination, in Federal policies and programs. The term “underserved communities” refers to populations sharing a particular characteristic, as well as geographic communities, that have been systematically denied a full opportunity to participate in aspects of economic, social, and civic life, such as Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native American persons, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other persons of color; members of religious minorities; lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning/queer and ( printed page 57849) related identities (LGBTQ+) persons; persons with disabilities; persons who live in rural areas; and persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality. In addition to identifying barriers, DOI seeks recommendations on how to update processes, policies, regulations, and guidance to address inequities associated with recreation on DOI-managed public lands and waters. While all members of the public are invited to submit comments, the target audience for listening sessions is members of the underserved communities identified in Executive Order 13985, which includes:

• Black, Latino, and Indigenous and Native American persons, Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and other persons of color;
• LGBTQ+ persons;
• Persons with disabilities;
• Persons who live in rural areas; and
• Persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality.

Questions for Discussion

The Department of the Interior is generally interested in input on the following questions, where applicable:

1. What are the barriers to visiting public lands and waters managed by DOI (including the Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, National Park Service, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)?

2. How can DOI remove or reduce barriers ( e.g., update policies, practices, or programs) that underserved communities and individuals may face when they recreate or attempt to recreate on DOI-managed lands and waters?

3. How can DOI establish and maintain connections to a wider and more diverse set of stakeholders representing underserved communities? What are the best ways to notify and engage underserved stakeholders about recreational opportunities?

Comments received in response to this notice and from listening sessions will be evaluated and, as appropriate, incorporated into DOI's efforts to improve access to recreational opportunities on DOI-managed public lands and waters.

Listening Session Registration Information

Advanced registration for individuals and groups is strongly encouraged. For additional information about the listening sessions and to register for a listening session, please visit https://www.doi.gov/​ppa/​equity /13985. Details for the sessions will be posted to the website and additional information will be emailed to registered participants in advance of the sessions.

86 FR 57848