Access to public land is a privilege that all Americans and foreign visitors enjoy in most states (yes, we are giving you side eyes, Texas, Connecticut, and Iowa). With this privilege comes the responsibility for all users to engage in the sustainable and respectful use of this land. onX, a leader in digital outdoor navigation, has recently released its 2024 Impact Report that illustrates this private institution’s commitment to protecting access and conserving US land.
The report details significant strides in enhancing land access, conservation, and stewardship across the United States and underscores onX’s commitment to preserving outdoor spaces and ensuring sustainable recreational opportunities for future generations.
Central to onX’s initiatives is the Adventure Forever Grant program, which funds projects aimed at improving land access and stewardship. In 2024, this program supported numerous endeavors nationwide, addressing diverse needs from trail maintenance to habitat restoration. The grants facilitated the opening of new public acres and the enhancement of recreational infrastructure, thereby broadening opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
One highlighted project involved collaboration with Sportsmen for the Boundary Waters in Minnesota. Volunteers worked to restore the Pine Island Wildlife Management Area, a 40-acre parcel near the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Efforts included thinning undergrowth, planting 1,000 native trees, and clearing trails, thereby supporting wildlife habitats and improving access for hunters.
In Michigan, onX partnered with TreadLightly! to co-host five trail stewardship projects. Volunteers installed 1,120 feet of new fencing, improved 76 miles of trails, and removed 8,402 pounds of trash, all in a single day. These efforts significantly enhanced the quality and sustainability of the state’s trail systems.
Beyond on-the-ground projects, onX engaged in advocacy efforts to support legislation beneficial to public land access. The company lobbied for public hunting access programs and digitizing access and regulations data, aiming to streamline information for outdoor enthusiasts and policymakers alike.
In 2024, onX introduced the Active Wildfire Conditions feature within its app. This tool provides users with real-time information on hotspots, smoke conditions, and active wildfire boundaries, enhancing safety and awareness for those venturing outdoors during wildfire seasons.
The report emphasizes that onX’s conservation and access efforts are collaborative, involving partnerships with organizations and active engagement from its user community. The company acknowledges that while significant progress has been made, continuous efforts are necessary to protect and preserve outdoor spaces. Looking ahead, onX is committed to expanding its initiatives, fostering a culture of stewardship, and inspiring others to contribute to the sustainability of shared landscapes.
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