DOI pushes for recreational opportunities for electric bicycles on public lands
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News from the Department of the Interior
WASHINGTON – The Department of the Interior announced its guidance to implement Secretary’s Order 3376, Increasing Recreational Opportunities Through the Use of Electric Bikes, which will allow the use of low-speed electric bicycles (e-bikes) at national wildlife refuges and other DOI-managed public lands where traditional biking occurs, expanding recreational opportunities and access to millions of Americans. The National Park Service has previously issued guidance to allow for e-bikes to be used on most bike paths in the national parks.
Secretary’s Order 3376, signed by U.S. Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt on Aug. 29, directs DOI bureaus to create a clear and consistent e-bike policy for the lands they manage. The policy also supports Secretary’s Order 3366 to increase recreational opportunities on public lands.
A majority of states have adopted e-bike policies, which primarily have followed model legislation allowing for three classes of e-bikes to have access to bicycle trails. The DOI e-bike guidance seeks to provide consistency with the state and local rules where possible. “Millions of Americans want to bike on our public lands and pedal assist bikes can facilitate the effort of those whose age, fitness level or disability limits their interest,” said Secretary Bernhardt. “Where possible and appropriate, we want to accommodate bicycling and the enjoyment of our public lands.”
Secretary’s Order 3376 directs DOI bureaus to begin the longer term process of obtaining public input on new regulations that will clarify that low-speed e-bikes should enjoy the same access as conventional bicycles, consistent with other federal and state laws.
When used as an alternative to gasoline-or diesel-powered modes of transportation, e-bikes can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fossil-fuel consumption, improve air quality and support active modes of transportation for visitors.
U.S. public lands offer exceptional biking experiences and great potential for e-bikes. For more information, the NPS, FWS, BLM, and USBR have created websites and online tools for the public to learn more about e-bikes, answer frequently asked questions, and provide updates on this policy and where e-bikes are allowed to be used on public lands.
