Hunters and anglers for generations have contributed to wildlife conservation by paying taxes assessed on the purchase of outdoor gear related to their pastimes. Why isn%27t there also a tax levied on outdoor gear and products used by non-consumptive users%3F Shouldn%27t everyone who uses public lands%2C from downhill skiers and hikers to mountain bikers and river rafters%2C be expected to pay%3F It%27s a topic of debate and considerable pushback has come from outdoor retailers. Photo of hikers courtesy Jacob W. Frank%252FNPS
Hunters and anglers for generations have contributed to wildlife conservation by paying taxes assessed on the purchase of outdoor gear related to their pastimes. Why isn%27t there also a tax levied on outdoor gear and products used by non-consumptive users%3F Shouldn%27t everyone who uses public lands%2C from downhill skiers and hikers to mountain bikers and river rafters%2C be expected to pay%3F It%27s a topic of debate and considerable pushback has come from outdoor retailers. Photo of hikers courtesy Jacob W. Frank%252FNPS